Assault victims who spoke out

UNITED against racism . . . attack victims Hamza Ali and James Howard

Two boys who came together to call for peace on the streets have been nominated for Pride in Oldham awards.

Hamza Ali and James Howard were both treated in hospital after separate attacks in Chadderton.

James suffered a broken nose, two black eyes and several cuts and bruises when he was set on by a crowd of Asian youths, who stamped on his head.

The 14-year-old was attacked as he rode his bike home in February.

Hamza (12) was attacked by three white boys in an alley off Victoria Street as he walked to school.

They banged his head against a wall, and he was X-rayed at the Royal Oldham Hospital for suspected fractures.

Hamza, from Coldhurst, and James, from Chadderton, did not know each other before their attacks, which happened only days and yards apart.

But they came together with their parents in March to call for an end to the racist attacks.

The families called for parents to come together to create a tolerant and safe environment for their children, and break down negative stereotypes.

When James heard about his nomination, he said: “It makes me feel pretty privileged, and proud that people think we are an example for others.”

His mum Angela said: “James said to me, ‘This means someone is really really proud of me, and makes me feel really pleased inside’.”

Hamza said: “I’m pleased to hear about this, it makes me proud.”