Racist graffiti at nature spot 'won't be tolerated'

Racist graffiti spray-painted repeatedly at the entrance of a popular nature reserve has left nearby residents "shocked and deeply saddened".

It is the third time an offensive slur has been reported on a stone marker at the entrance to Magpie Bottom Nature Reserve in Hanham on the outskirts of Bristol - twice in one week in August and once in 2025.

The graffiti has been removed by South Gloucestershire Council, which owns the park, with councillor John Bradbury saying the "unacceptable" vandalism "will not be tolerated".

One resident, who asked to remain anonymous, said they had been left "shocked and deeply saddened" by the incidents.

They added it was "extremely concerning" someone would choose to leave the slur "in a way that can cause harm, division and fear".

"Racist abuse has no place in our neighbourhoods, and incidents such as this can make people feel isolated, unwelcome and vulnerable in places where they should feel safe," they added.

The first recent appearance of the graffiti was reported to authorities on 12 August, with the second reported to Avon and Somerset Police on 16 August.

A member of the community added the graffiti was spray-painted a day before a family 'picnic in the park' event, with the volunteer group ensuring the public could not see the offensive slur upon entry.

A spokesperson for Friends of Magpie Bottom Nature Reserve said: "We consider Magpie Bottom to be a lovely green space, accessible to everyone. We are there for all of the local community and aim to be totally inclusive.

"Any mindless acts of vandalism are distressing to all of us but the community is strong."

The resident told the BBC they felt more needed to be done by the council and police "to protect communities across the city and to take meaningful, preventative action against racism and hate crime".

Bradbury, cabinet member for communities, said South Gloucestershire Council's community safety team would work with its partners, including the police, to identify those responsible.

A spokesperson for Avon & Somerset Police said neighbourhood officers were carrying out enquiries in the area and had increased patrols.

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