Kreshnik Qema, 25, from Upminster Road, Hornchurch, Essex, denied causing grievous bodily harm when he appeared before Worthing magistrates this morning (Tuesday, July 29).

Mr Qema is accused of punching a Nigerian man to the ground outside St Peter's Church, Chapel Road, around 3am on Friday morning.

The victim suffered severe head injuries from the attack and remains sedated in a specialist neurological hospital.

His condition has been described as critical but stable.

Mr Qema was remanded in custody and his case will reappear in court on August 5.

A second man remains on police bail.

Acting Detective Chief Inspector Jeff Riley, who is leading the investigation, said: "This attack has resulted in serious injury to the victim who remains in a critical but stable condition in hospital.

"It is vital that we trace all the witnesses at the scene, and in particular the members of the public who gave chase to the two offenders immediately after the attack occurred.

"I appeal for these individuals to contact us. At this point, although the motivation for the attack is not clear, it has been classified as a racist incident and will be investigated on this basis until the motivation is fully established."

Anyone with any information should contact police on 0845 60 70 999, quoting 'Operation Wroxham'.

Information can also be left anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

-------------------------------------
Click here to go back to Worthing news.

Where are you? Add your pin to the Herald's international readers' map by clicking here.

Email the Herald: letters@worthingherald.co.uk