MP condemns reported 'disgusting' racist attack

An MP has called reports of a racist attack on members of the Gurkha community "disgusting and frightening".

It comes after Hampshire Police said they were searching for a man for reportedly causing damage, assaulting people and being racially abusive to members of the public at Municipal Gardens in Aldershot, shortly before 19:30 BST on Tuesday.

The town's MP Alex Baker said she had spoken to police after the "deeply concerning" reports of an attack on members of the Nepalese community.

In a post on Facebook she said that officers had agreed to increase patrols in the area.

Baker added: "Our Nepalese and Gurkha community are at the heart of our town. Their service, sacrifice and contribution are part of Aldershot's story.

"They are our neighbours, colleagues, friends and families. Our town is stronger because they are part of it, and I will always stand with them.

"No one should feel unsafe in their own neighbourhood because of who they are, where they come from, or the colour of their skin."

Police said they were taking the report "extremely seriously" and have asked for anyone with relevant information, including any footage of the incident, to contact them.

Gurkhas, who are Nepalese soldiers, have been part of the British Army for more than 200 years and in 2009 veteran Gurkhas were given rights to settle in the UK.

You can follow BBC Hampshire & Isle of Wight on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram.