Alfie thanks supporters following attack by teenage boy
GARETH THOMAS has sent out his heartfelt thanks for the support he has received since being a victim of a homophobic attack last weekend.
But the former Welsh rugby star says the mental scars from being assaulted by a 16-year-old boy in Cardiff city centre “will stay with him for some time”.
Thomas – who won 100 caps for his country between 1995 and 2007 – shared a video on his official Twitter account in which he said he wanted to share a “positive message” after being exposed to the hate crime due to his sexuality.
And messages of support flooded in for Alfie from the rugby world and beyond.
France players will sport rainbow shoelaces in their boots in their clash with Fiji this weekend in support of Thomas.
With overwhelming backing for Thomas in the wake of the attack, the 44-year-old former Wales captain has gone onto social media to say thank you.
“After the physical scars have healed, I feel I have to say an unbelievable THANK YOU from me and all in the LGBT community for the support I have received,” tweeted Thomas.
“Truly humbled. My mental scars will stay with me for some time, but will drive me to fight even more for a world where acceptance of everyone is normal.
“To the French Rugby Federation, merci.
“The players wearing rainbow laces in solidarity is an immense sign of inclusion.
“To the group that attacked me, please stay true to your word and apologies. I believe you all when you said sorry.”
South Wales Police confirmed a teenager had been dealt with “by way of restorative justice” after the incident, which happened at around 9pm on The Hayes.
Police said the teen admitted assault and was apologetic for his actions, while restorative justice was at the request of Mr Thomas.
Restorative justice brings those harmed by crime or conflict and those responsible for the harm into communication, enabling everyone affected by a particular incident to enter a dialogue.