Bar worker targeted with 'appalling' homophobic abuse

A pub staff member was targeted with a tirade of homophobic abuse, with police searching for those responsible.

A group of four males and one female were involved in the incident at The Bootle Arms in the village of Melling, Merseyside, on Thursday evening.

Officers attended the Rock Lane pub at about 18:15 BST but the suspects had left the pub.

Appealing for information, Insp Ken Sumner said: "This was an appalling incident against someone who was just trying to do their job. No one should expect to be treated in such a shocking manner when they go to work."

He added: "There were lots of people in the pub at the time so if you saw what happened and have any information then please get in touch."

Officers were also reviewing CCTV.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio Merseyside on Sounds and follow BBC Merseyside on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.