Crime victim's paintings help to fight prejudice

A POIGNANT series of paintings produced by a crime victim are to be sold to help finance a campaign against prejudice and hatred.

Robert Maltby, from Todmorden, was attacked three years ago in an incident at Bacup, Lancashire, where his girlfriend, Sophie Lancaster, was kicked to death simply for choosing to dress as a Goth.

After making a partial recovery, Mr Maltby will next week launch his collection of 15 canvases named Crimson Iris: The Art of Sophie at Manchester's iconic shopping arcade, Affleck's Palace.

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Proceeds raised from the paintings, which are on sale for between 350 and 1,000, will go towards the Sophie (Stamp Out Prejudice Hatred and Intolerance Everywhere) Lancaster Foundation.

Mr Maltby said his paintings were designed to evoke feelings of hope, faith and anger, and were inspired partly by Sophie.