MEMBERS of Bradford on Avon Churches Together group have condemned the recent racist attack which took place in the town against a Bradford resident, calling on townsfolk to act with Christian values.

Canon David Driscoll, speaking on behalf of BACT, said: “It just shows that things like this can happen in Bradford. If it can happen here it can happen across the whole country. We saw the story in the Wiltshire Times and felt like it needed to be addressed in our meeting.”

Local man Braham Aissaoui has told police he was assaulted by two men at the top of the steps leading to St Margaret’s Street on October 22. The actions of Mr Aissaoui’s alleged attackers were condemned by the group, who said they were shocked that something like this would happen in their town.

The group has also released a statement on the attack, which features their concerns over what they see as a lack of investigation from Wiltshire Police after the attack was carried out.

“Bradford on Avon Area Churches Together were appalled to learn of the recent racist attack on Braham Aissaoui in Bradford on Avon, how two men repeatedly punched a man and kicked him, leaving him with bruising to his face and body, at the same time shouting Muslim and terrorist at him. It also appears that the police failed to make a proper investigation of the attack,” said Mr Driscoll on behalf of BACT.

“As Christians and churches in Bradford we thoroughly deplore such racist attacks as contrary to all decent behaviour, and certainly to Christianity where we are bidden to treat all people with dignity and respect regardless of their faith, ethnicity and race.”

Since the alleged attack, a 33-year-old man was arrested but has been released on bail pending further enquiries.

A spokesman from Wiltshire Police said: "A police investigation is ongoing and a 33-year-old local man has been arrested on suspicion of racially/religiously aggravated common assault. He has been released on bail pending further enquiries.

"Wiltshire Police take reports of this nature extremely seriously and a thorough investigation is being carried out. We'd continue to appeal for any witnesses to come forward if they have not already done so. Call police on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."