Charges over dance troupe 'abuse'

The dancers spent six nights in Grimsby

Two people have been charged with assault after a touring group of South African dancers were allegedly racially abused in Grimsby.

The incident reportedly took place on Saturday night after the Umoja troupe had finished the final performance of a six-night run at the Grimsby Auditorium.

A local man and woman were arrested and charged with assault and public order offences.

Both have been released on police bail.

The 48-strong troupe also claimed they were spat at when they performed in Sunderland as part of the UK leg of their world tour.

In 2003...people should learn to live together and love each other regardless of colour. Sheila Okonji

Superintendent Sean White of Humberside Police said: "It is deeply disappointing that the visitors from South Africa were left traumatised.

"It doesn't reflect well on Grimsby and I am sure the general community will not be pleased with what happened during their stay."

The group said they had not encountered any problems during their stays in countries including Australia, France and Germany.

Sheila Okonji, the show's co-producer, said she was shocked and saddened by their treatment.

She said: "I am very surprised because the way I see it is we are in 2003 and people should learn to live together and love each other regardless of colour.

Officers are still studying CCTV footage and have not ruled out further arrests.