Pregnant woman kicked in racist attack loses baby

A 34-year-old woman lost her baby after she was kicked in the stomach in a racist attack last month, it has emerged. Police are now appealing for help in finding the attacker.

The woman's name has not been released but witnesses said she was of Middle Eastern appearance and was wearing a headscarf when she was attacked at a branch of the Co-op in Bletchley, Buckinghamshire, on Saturday 6 August at 9.40pm.

The man approached her in the supermarket, which is near the Hazrath Shahjalal Jamie mosque, and made racial remarks before following her to her car, say police.

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According to The Sun, a 40-year-old passerby tried to intervene but was hit over the head with a bottle and a bag of ice. He was left bleeding heavily and holding his head in his hands, says the Daily Telegraph.

The attacker then kicked the woman in the torso, causing her to fall to the ground. A local resident, Marian Scott, 56, said she saw the woman lying on her back in the car park with a large crowd gathered round. She was screaming in agony.

The victim was rushed to hospital for treatment, as was the man who intervened, but nothing could be done to save the baby.

Police have released a CCTV image of the man and appealed for information from witnesses.

Investigating officer PC Richard Armitage said: "This racially aggravated assault had absolutely devastating consequences for the victim, who lost her baby as a result of the attack.

"Our thoughts are with her and her family at this incredibly difficult and sad time. A thorough investigation is under way and we would like to speak to the man pictured as he may have information which could help with the investigation."

Anyone who recognised the man in the CCTV image, or has any information about the attack, is asked to contact the police.