Avon and Somerset Police have released a CCTV image and details after bacon was left on the glass door of a mosque in Montpelier during prayer time; the incident is being treated as a religiously aggravated hate crime and officers are asking anyone with information to come forward.
Avon and Somerset Police are investigating after pieces of bacon were placed on the glass door of a mosque on Cheltenham Road in Montpelier at about 2.15pm on Friday 20 February — during the first week of Ramadan. Officers have treated the incident as a religiously aggravated public order offence, and local worshippers and residents have understandably been left upset and concerned.
What police have done so far
– Officers attended quickly, secured CCTV and took witness statements. – A clear image from CCTV showing a man who may have information about the incident has been released to the public. He is described as bald and wearing high‑visibility trousers with a dark jacket.
– Patrols in the area have been stepped up to reassure the congregation and neighbours, and police are staying in close contact with mosque leaders and other nearby places of worship. – Forensic teams remain involved while enquiries continue.
Who they want to hear from
Police are asking anyone who was in the area around 2.15pm on 20 February, or who has photos, dashcam or phone footage, to come forward.
If you have digital footage, keep the original file and note the exact time and location of the recording — this helps preserve evidence. Please avoid sharing unverified images on social media, as that can hinder the inquiry.
How to pass on information
– Call Avon and Somerset Police on 101 and quote reference 5226049136. – Use the force’s online appeals form. – If you’d rather remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or use their anonymous online form.
Words from the neighbourhood
Neighbourhoods’ Chief Inspector Serena Serjeant described the act as deliberate and deeply concerning, stressing the mosque was targeted at a time of significant religious observance. “We will not tolerate behaviour intended to intimidate or harass people because of their beliefs,” she said, adding that officers are working swiftly to reassure the community.
Community support and safety measures
Local community groups and leaders have urged calm while encouraging anyone with information to come forward. Safer-neighbourhood teams will run outreach sessions to answer questions, explain how to report concerns safely and help build confidence that the investigation is being taken seriously. Police are also liaising with nearby mosques to review security arrangements and share practical advice.
Legal context
The incident is being investigated under offences that include criminal damage and public order offences, with the possibility of being treated as a hate crime if evidence shows it was motivated by hostility toward religion. Prosecutors and investigators will examine intent and any aggravating factors before deciding on charges.
Why your help matters
Even small details — a snippet of dashcam, a doorbell clip, or a recollection of someone seen on Cheltenham Road around 2.15pm on 20 February — can make a material difference to the investigation. If you can help, please contact Avon and Somerset Police (101, ref 5226049136), use the force’s online form, or contact Crimestoppers (0800 555 111) to remain anonymous.
