A picture of a man police would like to speak to in relation to an assault on a Reform Party candidate was attacked in Cornwall has been released. The incident relates to a reported attack that knocked Reform UK candidate for Truro and Falmouth Steve Rubidge to the ground during Falmouth's Sea Shanty Festival.
Police said the attack took place on Saturday, June 15, at Grove Place while huge crowds were in the town for the popular annual festival. Three men reportedly were engaged in an argument before a physical altercation broke out between two of the men.
One of the men, who was Mr Rubidge, who was out campaigning for the looming July 4 General Election, was then pushed to the ground and then kicked. Police have only now released the image above.
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Devon and Cornwall Police has also issued an appeal to identify the man in relation to this incident. He was said to be wearing dark boots, light coloured trousers, a khaki jacket and had a red face covering on.
A statement from the force said: "Police are seeking the public’s help to identify this man in relation to an assault in Falmouth. The incident took place at around 1.15pm on Saturday 15 June at Grove Place, during the town’s Sea Shanty festival.
"It was reported that three men engaged in a discussion before an altercation between two of the men took place. During the altercation the victim was shoulder barged to the ground and then kicked.
"Officers investigating would like to speak to the man pictured as it is believed he may be able to assist with their enquiries. Anybody who witnessed the incident or who has relevant information is asked to call 101 or visit our website quoting 50240146510".
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Mr Rubidge, a GWR train driver, told CornwallLive at the time that aggression was a "worrying trend" in politics, but is undeterred. Speaking to CornwallLive, Steve said his bag and personal belongings were also taken during the incident, which he said would not stop him campaigning.
At the time, Richard Tice, Reform UK's chairman, said: "I am appalled to hear about the attack and assault on our candidate Steve Rubidge standing for Truro and Falmouth constituency. He's been assaulted and it's been reported to the police. His bag was taken from him, very nasty.
"This is no way to have a debate and discussion. We can disagree but we don't fight each other, that's not what our democracy is about. We will make sure the police pursue a prosecution.
"This has got to stop, it's not right - it's completely unacceptable. But Steve, all credit to him, back out campaigning within half an hour, did another four hours. You want change, vote Reform."
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