HOMOPHOBIC INSULTS were reportedly thrown at a group of students returning from a gay night- but their abusers were York students too.
Witnesses claim that the bullies were members of York’s Officer Training Corps, a programme run by the Army to provide military leadership training to students.
The incident took place on a night bus returning to the city from Leeds. One of the student victims, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: “They made me feel massively uncomfortable the whole way home.”
He explained that the abuse started when two of his friends, who were “wasted”, began hugging and kissing.
“The members of the OTC literally watched them the whole journey, gathering together and making horrible comments. It was quite intimidating.”
YUSU Welfare Officer Ben Humphrys said that he was “disgusted” by the actions of the individuals involved in the incident.
“They reflect badly upon both themselves and their organisation,” he said.
“Students should know that YUSU will not tolerate homophobia, and will actively work to prevent students involved in it from attending events held by YUSU or organisations with which we are affiliated.”
A spokesman for Leeds OTC, to which the York detachment belongs, said: “Homophobia is not allowed in the OTC and we are unaware of any of our cadets making such comments.”
Any students who find themselves victim of any kind of abuse, threats or intimidation should contact YUSU who promise to pursue each case thoroughly.