A murder investigation has been launched after a man was stabbed to death in east London.

The 21-year-old victim was found with critical injuries in Pier Road, North Woolwich, at about 8.10pm on Wednesday, the Metropolitan Police said.

Officers battled to save the man before police arrived.

He was taken to an east London hospital, but was pronounced dead at about 9.30pm.

The Met said they believe they know the identity of the man, but are awaiting formal identification and confirmation that the next of kin have been informed.

A post-mortem examination will be arranged in due course.

Detectives from the Metropolitan Police's Homicide and Major Crime Command are investigating, alongside officers from Newham borough.

Local road closures remain in place and police cordons are also affecting pedestrian footpaths in the Pier Road area.

Anyone with information should call police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.