Racially abusive attack at Somerfield store in Grove Road

Police in Basingstoke are appealing for witnesses and information following a racially aggravated incident in the town during the early hours of Sunday, June 28.

Around 12.30am, a man entered the Somerfield store in Grove Road to purchase cigarettes. While doing so, he became racially abusive to shop staff.

The man, who had been drinking, then picked up a bag of coal and threw it at the shopfront before spitting at the window.

He remained on the forecourt before walking off towards Black Dam.

Officers have released CCTV of the man, who is described as:

• White
• Aged 29-30
• About 5ft 6ins to 5ft 8ins
• Medium build
• Unshaven with stubble on his chin
• Short, spiky black hair
• Wearing a yellow t-shirt with a motif on the front and light blue jeans
• Spoke with a local accent

Officers are also keen to trace two witnesses who they believe may have vital information about the incident.

PC Daniel Coppin, from the Basingstoke Targeted Patrol Team, said: “I would like to speak to a woman wearing a black sleeveless dress who entered the forecourt just after the man as she is a key witness to the event.

“I am also trying to trace the driver of a grey Vauxhall Vectra private hire taxi who used the forecourt with the offender still on scene as he too may be able to help.

“The man was rightly refused service by the staff at the shop owing to his drunk and abusive manner. No-one should be subjected to this kind of abuse and the conduct of this man is wholly reprehensible.

“I would appeal for any witnesses, particularly the two people described, to contact me.”

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