AN MP has joined police in a campaign against race attacks.

Thurrock MP Andrew Mackinlay urged the public to help a police operation to track down the thugs responsible for a series of attacks on black people in Tilbury.

The Labour MP, who has a home in the town, said: "The morons responsible give a completely distorted view of Tilbury and of the thoroughly decent people who live there.

"I fully support the police operation and urge the people of Tilbury to do so. The police can't do it alone.

"I hope it's not too long before those responsible are behind bars."

Insp Mark Wheeler said: "We've seen a rise in racist behaviour every year for the past few years.

"Alcohol certainly does have a part to play, but there is also a need for awareness and tolerance to be raised surrounding the benefits of living in a multi-cultural society. These people are cowards and we would urge people to contact us with names."

Thurrock councillor Bukky Okunade, of West African origin, represents Tilbury Riverside and Thurrock Park ward.

She said: "There has been a wave of racially- motivated street attacks mainly against African-Caribbeans, but the perpetrators are in a minority."

There were three race attacks within just six days:

  • Monday, August 6 - a 26-year-old student was punched and racially abused near Brennan Road
  • Tuesday, August 7 - a 41-year-old IT operator was walking along Adelaide Road when he was confronted by eight men. One punched him in the face while the accomplices shouted racist abuse
  • Saturday, August 11 - a man was walking near the railway station when he was attacked by a group of teenagers. They left him with a dislocated shoulder.

Anyone with information should call 01375 391212.