Man arrested in connection with alleged homophobic attack after BBC Crimewatch appeal

Bruising to Ryan's face from the attack Pic: Ryan Williams/Blog Preston — Bruising to Ryan’s face from the attack Pic: Ryan Williams/Blog Preston

A man has been arrested in connection with an alleged homophobic attack after it appeared on BBC’s Crimewatch.

22-year-old Ryan Williams was knocked unconscious as he and his friends walked to McDonalds in Friargate after a night out on July 13. He was taken to Royal Preston Hospital where he was treated for facial injuries.

Following the attack, Ryan, from Fulwood, shared pictures of his injuries in a bid to track down his attacker.

Last Monday a Crimewatch appeal was broadcast live from Lancashire Police’s Force HQ in Hutton, as the crime remained unsolved.

Following the program, Lancashire Police received a number of calls from the public and an 18-year-old man from Chorley was arrested on Tuesday (Sept 25). He has been released under investigation.

PC Mike Cobley, of Preston Police, said: “We would like to thank everyone who called in following the programme airing last week.

“We have made an arrest, though our enquiries are continuing. We would ask anybody with further information about the incident to get in touch as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information should contact us on 101 quoting log 311 of July 13th.