Buddhist monk thanks community after attack

A Buddhist monk injured by two youths during an attack along a riverside has thanked the local community for their "immense kindness".

Karucha Sripramote said he had been punched and kicked after being repeatedly harassed by masked children in Hebburn Riverside Park, South Tyneside, on Tuesday.

Writing on social media, Sripramote added he holds "no anger" towards the children involved.

He said he was "deeply touched by the outpouring of support" and warm messages from people in Hebburn where he has lived for more than six years.

Sripramote, who suffered a cut to his mouth and damage to his glasses, said the minor injuries he suffered were almost fully healed.

He wrote: "I know firsthand how kind, welcoming, and peaceful this town is. This single incident does not change how much I value and appreciate living here.

"As a Buddhist monk, I contemplate life through understanding, patience, and the principle of cause and effect.

"I hold no anger, resentment, or bitterness towards the young lads. While their actions crossed a line, panic and poor judgement often lead young people to react recklessly."

The monk, who was wearing his orange Buddhist outfit at the time of Tuesday's attack, teaches Buddhism and meditation at the Dhammakaya Meditation Centre within Hebburn's former Church of St Andrew.

"My only hope is that these young lads take a moment to reflect on the kind of community they wish to grow up in," he added.

"The way we treat others inevitably shapes the environment our own loved ones and families live in."

Northumbria Police said they had logged the report on their records to assist with future patrols, though there was no direct CCTV coverage at that specific spot.

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