A British professional cyclist has been called a “faggot” and attacked in a bar on Auckland's North Shore because of the colourful t-shirt he was wearing. Matt Cronshaw had just competed in a race a few hours before he went out to Hurstmere Rd Mac's Brew Bar in Takapuna on 16 November, where he was confronted by three men. He can’t remember the attack, and friends have had to fill him in. "I was wearing a T-shirt that's multi-coloured and it's got cats on it. I kind of wear it because it's a bit funny, it's a talking point. They called me a faggot or something. I asked him what his problem was and asked why he didn't like cats,” Cronshaw has told the New Zealand Herald. "My mate said one of the guys just swung a big king-hit. He said it sounded like movie sound effects, like two planks of wood smacking together." Cronshaw was knocked unconscious and his cheekbone was fractured, as was his eye socket in three places. Police have released photos of the men they believe were involved: "This was an unprovoked attack that had very serious consequences for this young man. The victim had come to New Zealand to take part in a sporting event," Constable Rob Thow says. Anyone with information should call Thow on (09) 353 0583 or call the Crimestoppers line anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Wednesday, 4th December 2013 - 9:49am