Anti-Semitic messages spread across golf club bunkers

Police have launched a hate crime investigation after anti-Semitic messages were spread in bunkers at a north London golf club.

The Metropolitan Police said staff at Hendon Golf Club reported the messages and damage to other properties on Friday.

It happened just before the Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur, which lasted from Friday night until Saturday night.

The force said the incident was being “investigated as a racially aggravated hate crime” and appealed for information.

‘Totally terrible’

Hendon MP David Pinto-Duschinsky said the incident was “utterly appalling”.

In a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter, he added: “I have already reported it to the police and CST and will speak to the club.

“It is completely unacceptable. I want the people who did this to be caught and punished.”

The Community Security Trust (CST) said it was aware of the “appalling anti-Semitic slogans and symbols”.

The charity, which works to combat anti-Semitism, said in a statement: “It is utterly shameful that this should occur in the heart of the Jewish community just before the start of Yom Kippur.”

DCI Daniel Branch, from the North West Command Unit, said the force was “aware of the shock and distress this incident has caused, particularly at a time when the Jewish community is celebrating Yom Kippur”.

He added: “The incident is being investigated as a racially aggravated hate crime and work is ongoing, led by officers from the North West community safety unit, to identify and arrest whoever is responsible.”

Hendon Golf Club has been contacted for comment.

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