‘I was the victim in my home city of a hate crime for my sexuality’: Shocking anti-gay attack on Wales rugby legend Gareth Thomas

The former captain of the Welsh rugby side has described being the victim of a homophobic attack over the weekend, with his teenage assailant apologising after police dealt with him by way of restorative justice.

Former Welsh captain Gareth Thomas (centre) has posted a video on twitter explaining that he was the victim of a hate crime against his sexuality.

The former captain of the Welsh rugby side has described being the victim of a homophobic attack over the weekend, with his teenage assailant apologising after police dealt with him by way of restorative justice.

Gareth Thomas, 44, appeared bruised and cut in a video on his Twitter account on Sunday in which he said he was targeted on a night out in Cardiff.

“I was the victim in my home city of a hate crime for my sexuality,” he said.

“There are an awful lot of people out there who want to hurt us, but unfortunately for them there are a lot more who want to help us heal so this I hope will be a positive message,” he added.

South Wales Police confirmed in a statement on Facebook that it had dealt with the 16-year-old who attacked Thomas late on Friday.

“Restorative justice was at the request of Mr Thomas and accepted by the teenager who admitted assault and was apologetic for his actions,” the statement read.

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Restorative justice is about putting victim needs at the centre of the criminal justice system, finding positive solutions to crime and encouraging young people to be accountable for the consequences of their actions, the police said.

Thomas played 100 test for Wales at wing and fullback, captaining the national side as well as the British and Irish Lions.

He came out as gay in 2009 and has been an outspoken voice against homophobia in sport. His efforts include launching a draft bill in British parliament in June to explicitly outlaw homophobic abuse by fans at sports matches.

Leading international referee, Nigel Owens, who is also gay, was one of many to condemn the attack and send his well wishes to Thomas.

So sad and sorry to hear this Gar. Totally unacceptably and cowardly behaviour. Well done for the way you have dealt with it too. Stand tall and proud my friend we are all totally supportive of you and stand with you against these yobs. https://t.co/LqedYDwZCO

— Nigel Owens MBE (@Nigelrefowens) November 18, 2018

Originally published as ‘I was the victim in my home city of a hate crime for my sexuality’: Shocking anti-gay attack on Wales rugby legend Gareth Thomas