Man held over reports of racial abuse in park

A man has been arrested on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence following reports of the Nepalese community being targeted in Aldershot.

Hampshire Police said they were called to reports of a man causing damage, assaulting people and being "racially abusive" in Municipal Gardens shortly before 19:30 BST on Tuesday.

In an update, detectives said a 58-year-old man from Ash, Surrey, had been arrested on suspicion of assault causing actual bodily harm, common assault, affray, criminal damage and racially aggravated public order offences.

Previously, Aldershot MP Alex Baker said she was deeply concerned by the reports.

In a Facebook post, she wrote: "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."

Police, who previously appealed for footage of the incident, said the suspect remained in custody.

Gurkhas, who are Nepalese soldiers, have been part of the British Army for more than 200 years.

In 2009, veteran Gurkhas were given rights to settle in the UK.

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