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Man arrested following homophobic attack in Preston which left victim unconscious

Ryan Williams was knocked unconscious during the attack in July

By Steve Brown

Words: Steve Brown

An 18-year-old man has been arrested following a homophobic attack in Preston.

Back in July, Ryan Williams was attacked near McDonald’s in Friargate, Preston, and was knocked unconscious as he walked out of the fast food restaurant, according to the Chorley Guardian.

Ryan’s attack received national coverage when it appeared on BBC Crimewatch Roadshow where the victim said: “The doctor said to me, if the blow was to inches higher, it could have killed me.

“I didn’t feel me afterwards, and I didn’t like it. I’ve relived every single moment.

“It’s made me lose faith in so much, it’s made me question my sexuality.

“It’s made me question whether I want to even be here. It’s made me question everything.”

Since the attack was aired on the series earlier this month, an 18-year-old man from Chorley has been arrested on suspicion of aggravated actual bodily harm and assault.

He has been released under investigation.