RuPaul's Drag Race UK star 'punched in head' after 'homophobic abuse'

RuPaul's Drag Race UK contestant Pixie Polite has said they were assaulted in a Tesco store in south London on Monday evening.

The performer, whose real name is Mark Wickens, alleged they were punched in the face by a man following a verbal altercation at the Tesco branch in Colliers Wood.

Posting on Instagram, the 32-year-old told followers the incident "evolved from general comments and mocking, into verbal homophobic abuse, then into violence".

Pixie later visited hospital and said they had suffered a suspected concussion. Doctors reportedly said the symptoms were "conducive with a general head injury".

The Metropolitan Police confirmed they are investigating and are treating the incident as a hate crime. No arrests have been made at this stage.

A spokesperson for the force said: "At 18:10hrs on Monday, 28 July officers responded to reports of assault and verbal abuse inside a shop on High Street Colliers Wood, Merton.

"Police spoke with one victim, a person in their 30s. An investigation has been launched and the incident is being treated as a hate crime. Enquiries are ongoing."

They added: "The victim is being supported by officers. We understand the impact this will have had on the LGBTQ+ community. If you have any concerns please speak to a local police officer."

Pixie, who appeared on the fourth series of the BBC Three competition show in 2022, said they had taken a photo of the alleged attacker and claimed CCTV footage exists.

In an update on Tuesday, they wrote: "Feeling a little groggy today, and have taken the day off to rest and process what happened. Overall I'm pretty much fine but I am feeling the same sense of righteous indignation I felt last night."

The drag performer thanked police for their support, describing their response as "surprisingly great".

The Metropolitan Police are appealing for information and have asked anyone who witnessed the incident to contact 101 quoting CAD 5855/28JUL. Anonymous tips can be shared via Crimestoppers.