Will Young gets apology from TfL after experiencing homophobic abuse by London bus driver
The singer has been searching for the driver to prevent further abuse
Transport for London (TfL) has apologised to Will Young after he was subjected to homophobic abuse by a bus driver.
The ‘Jealousy’ singer was allegedly called a “poofter” by a London bus driver and has been trying to track the man down in order to prevent further abuse.
According to The Evening Standard, the incident occurred on December 12 when Young was driving in Fulham.
Now, Transport for London has said it’s investigating what happened and insisted that hate crime is “unacceptable”.
Steve Burton, TfL’s Director of Enforcement, said: “We’re very sorry to hear of Will Young’s experience, and are looking into it urgently.
“Any form of hate crime is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Everyone has the right to travel without fear of abuse or intimidation and if anyone witnesses or is victim to hate crime they should report it immediately.”
He added: “We work closely with our police partners to eradicate hate crimes and fully investigate all reported incidents.”
Young tweeted about the incident on Friday (January 5) and claimed TfL has been “amazing” after he reported the incident. He also pleaded with London mayor Sadiq Khan for help “to ensure he doesn’t abuse others.”
TfL doing everything they can but I am appealing to @TfL @SadiqKhan to help me find the driver to ensure he doesn’t abuse others . PLEASE DM me
— Will Young (@willyoung) January 5, 2018
The star later tweeted that he doesn’t want a “witch hunt”.
“TfL been great at reacting to my tweet. All I need is an apology – no witch hunt. To be called a poofter isn’t the nicest thing and it reminds me what a vile thing prejudicial language is to try and shame others.”
TfL been great at reacting to my tweet . All I need is an apology – no witch hunt . To be called a poofter isn’t the nicest thing and it reminds me what a vile thing prejudicial language is to try and shame others. I can take action, many young people can’t
— Will Young (@willyoung) January 5, 2018
He added: “I can take action, many young people can’t.”