News of an Isle of Wight musician being arrested under an allegation of ‘racially aggravated harassment’ in Sandown at the weekend, is spreading like wildfire through the national press.
Word has it that Shanklin resident Simon Ledger (confirmed through postings on his Facebook account), was performing a regular set in a bar on the beach with his duelling organ partner.
Apparently, as they were singing the Carl Douglas disco classic “Kung Fu Fighting”, a man of Chinese origin who was walking past with his mother, took offence to the performance.
It’s not clear whether there was more to take offence from than just the song being sung.
Photos taken on mobile phone
Some of the papers report that the man took photos of the musicians on his mobile before later contacting the police, complaining that he was subjected to racial abuse by musicians performing at the bar.
Later that evening, Police arrested Mr Ledger on suspicion of causing harassment, alarm or distress under section 4A of the Public Order Act 1986.
A Hampshire Constabulary spokesman said: “If a victim believes an alleged crime is racially aggravated, the police will treat it seriously in accordance with a high set of standards. An investigation into this allegation is continuing to establish the full circumstances surrounding what happened.”
Mr Ledger is due to visit Newport Police station today.
