Owen Jones beaten up in ‘blatant premeditated assault’

This is a bit dramatic, so firstly I’m fine, but last night – when I was celebrating my birthday – I was attacked, along with my friends, in a blatant premeditated assault.

— Owen Jones (@OwenJones84) August 17, 2019

Six of us left the pub at 3am and were saying our goodbyes 30 metres away, then a group of 3-4 men left the pub, made a beeline for me, kicked me in the back, threw me on the ground, slamming my head, and kicked me in the skull. My friends were punched trying to defend me.

— Owen Jones (@OwenJones84) August 17, 2019

The group then scarpered: I don’t know if they said anything in the melee. I’m fine other than a big bump on my head and a cut back.

Given the far right attacks I’ve had in the streets, and generally escalating far right threats I’ve had, I’m in no doubt as to what this is.

— Owen Jones (@OwenJones84) August 17, 2019

Oh and thanks to my friends, who were assaulted defending me and who I love very much ❤️

— Owen Jones (@OwenJones84) August 17, 2019

This is awful. So much love for you Owen. Very scary times

— Faiza Shaheen (@faizashaheen) August 17, 2019

This is absolutely horrifying. Glad you are okay and hope that swift justice is done.

— Tom Harwood (@tomhfh) August 17, 2019

solidarity oj, it shouldn't need to be a courageous thing to hold the positions you do in public, but we live in a very alarming present, all the best with everything ✊

— Stan's Account (@tristandross) August 17, 2019

Wishing you well, Owen. Appalling.

— Shelagh Fogarty (@ShelaghFogarty) August 17, 2019