Statement Statement

A joint statement from the Bishop of Bradwell and the Bishop of Barking

30 May 2026

The Bishop of Bradwell, the Rt Rev'd Adam Atkinson and the Bishop of Barking the Rt Rev'd Lynne Cullens have issued a joint statement following a racist attack at East Ham station this week. The statement reads as follows:

"This week, a man who worships and faithfully serves in one of our parishes in South Essex was the victim of a brutal racist attack by a group of masked young men at East Ham Station. His work colleague, who is also of Asian heritage, was also attacked. Both men are currently recovering after being well looked after by the police and NHS staff. We thank them and the members of the public who bravely attempted to intervene to stop the attack.  

"Our thoughts and prayers are with both men as they recover from this horrific ordeal. Racism is a blight on the communities we serve and we are appalled by and condemn all forms of hatred and discrimination. We encourage anyone with information about this incident to contact the British Transport Police.  "

The Rt Rev'd Adam Atkinson, Bishop of Bradwell

The Rt Rev'd Lynne Cullens, Bishop of Barking