Homophobic attack in Worcestershire may threaten Rainbow Picnic celebrations
A teenager was the victim of an unprovoked homophobic attack over the weekend after a night out in Worcester city centre.
The 19-year-old male was subject to abuse by five men as he left a nightclub and walked back to the Cornmarket car park at around 12.45am on Friday.
He has warned other members of the LGBT community to be extra vigilant and make sure they stay safe when out with friends.
Police are still waiting to speak to the victim, who was reportedly punched in the back of the head.
His partner, 23-year-old Guy Vann, of Wyld’s Lane, reported the incident after receiving a suspicious voicemail.
He said: ‘If you are out on an evening be careful and if possible stay with a friend or send a text message to a friend. If you are LGBT you open yourself up to more vulnerability.’
A police spokesperson urged victims of homophobic attacks to come forward as soon as possible so those responsible can be caught as soon as possible.
This attack comes just weeks after Bromsgrove, Redditch and Worcester announced a series of ‘Rainbow Picnics’ being held in June to celebrate gay pride.
Bromsgrove resident and organiser Rory Shannon said: ‘Rainbow Picnics will bring together folk who perhaps wouldn’t normally get the chance to meet, and are an alternative to the larger Prides’.
As it stands, the picnics will still be taking place despite the attack. These will be in Bromsgrove on Saturday 9th June in Sanders Park, Redditch on 16th June in Arrow Valley Park, and Worcester on the 23rd June in Gheluvelt Park.
For details of the picnics, visit www.rainbowcrowd.co.uk.
