A SHOPKEEPER, who begged for help to protect him after racist thugs repeatedly targeted his store, has had a meeting with police.

Officers have taken away CCTV footage, highlighting some of the incidents that have taken place at the Premier store, in Gain Lane, Fagley, Bradford, which have included physical assaults, verbal abuse, theft, threats and vandalism.

Shop manager Devananden Diraj (pictured) said police could do more to protect him and his shop after nine attacks in two months. In the latest incident he was punched in the face and hit with a wooden pole when he remonstrated with a group of youths who were blocking the shop entrance.

A West Yorkshire Police spokesman said yesterday: "Officers met the complainant on Sunday and had a lengthy discussion about his concerns. Patrols have also been increased in the area to prevent any further incidents.

"Footage has been recovered and is now being examined to identify those involved.

"Inquiries are continuing into these matters and anyone with information is asked to contact the Bradford East Area Neighbourhood Team on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

Mr Diraj said: "The police said they want to take action, they are going to prepare a case, and they will be in touch with me. It's okay now, there have been no more incidents."