Southampton man goaded woman to leap off Itchen Bridge

Edward Rickard shouted “jump, jump”, at a woman in distress on the Itchen Bridge, but a court heard he later dismissed the incident as “banter”.

Police officers had closed the road and were working to control the situation on May 6 this year.

However, Rickard, 45, repeatedly ignored their pleas to step back and move on, a court heard.

He instead walked up to one of the officers, who was forced to turn his back on the “distressed woman” involved in the incident.

When Rickard of Coventry Road did finally leave the scene he swore at one officer and hurled a racist comment at the other.

During a police interview, he said he had been drunk at the time and admitted shouting “jump”.

• Delivery driver robbed in racist attack

He appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday charged with racially aggravated harassment and obstructing a constable in the execution of his duty.

He had previously pleaded guilty.

In mitigation, it was said Rickard had been out drinking with a friend.

It was argued that his comments were “banter” and that he had since shown remorse for his actions.

Rickard - who has a previous racially aggravated offence to his name - said he was ashamed of the event.

During sentencing, District Judge Peter Greenfield slammed him, saying he could not fathom why he put the woman at risk and why he abused the officers trying to help her.

Rickard was jailed for 16 weeks, suspended for 18 months.

• Southampton residents march against racism after city stabbing

He must pay £200 in compensation, complete 180 hours of unpaid work and 20 rehabilitation days.

He must also pay £85 court costs and a £128 victim surcharge.

Judge Greenfield said: “The only thing saving you from going to prison is your guilty plea and remorse.”