Rise in racial attacks reported

Racial attacks in Nottinghamshire have nearly doubled since the London bombings, according to the latest figures from a charity.

Victim Support said 70 incidents had been reported since 7 July, compared to around 40 in the same period last year.

In the city of Nottingham, 41 racially-motivated incidents had been reported, compared to 17 in 2004.

Staff from the charity are urging people to report all crimes, however apparently minor.

Ian Firth from Victim Support said: "The unfortunate thing is that many people only report a situation when it becomes a crisis.

"People often suffer many incidents of racial harassment before seeking help - the average is 39.

"We encourage people to go to the police sooner so they can get the help and support they deserve."