Man describes racial attack after Hindu celebration

A man has described how he was hit over the head and punched to the ground in a suspected racially aggravated attack after leaving a Hindu celebration.

The victim, who did not want to be named, was attacked along with a friend as they left the Dussehra and Bathukamma event at Ossett Town Hall on Saturday night.

He said he had left the venue with his wife when a male from a "mob of young people" wearing balaclavas became abusive and attacked them as they retreated back inside for safety.

West Yorkshire Police appealed for information about a group of youths seen around the town hall at the time of the attack, particularly those who were seen riding e-bikes.

The man, who had travelled from Bingley for the event, said: "We had just left the celebration and as we set off to walk to get the car, a male came up to us and started shouting, 'Why are you here? What are you doing here?'

"We were very intimidated so we decided to turn round to go back into the town hall.

"I'd taken a few steps and I was hit over the head and then punched in the face which knocked me to the floor."

After he managed to get back inside, he said guests were told to remain indoors until police arrived.

The man said the event, marking two major Hindu festivals, was attended by families and children.

"We were all scared because the mob of people were still outside and didn't disperse until the police came," he said.

"We were worried that they would get inside."

The man and a friend suffered facial injuries, with both needing hospital treatment.

"When we were first approached we just kept our heads down and tried to ignore it," he said.

"I've never experienced anything like this. It was really frightening and completely unprovoked."

Insp Andrew Dickinson, of Wakefield West Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "We recognise the distress this incident has caused to those attending Saturday's event and to the wider Hindu community.

"Everyone has the right to attend community events safely and without fear.

"We are treating these assaults seriously and are working to ensure those responsible are held accountable."

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