CAMPAIGNERS calling for CCTV to be installed close to where a Hereford father was murdered claim two more attacks in the area this week are proof the technology is needed.

Police confirmed they received reports that a man was assaulted on the Great Western Way and another was attacked close to the popular footpath in separate incidents late last Thursday night.

Six people have been arrested in connection with the latest assaults, which happened just a few hundred metres from the spot where Christian Bagley was stabbed to death on Father’s Day, although police are not linking them to the murder case.

But the founder of an online petition which calls for cameras along the whole route believes the area is increasingly becoming a ‘no-go’ area and says taxpayers deserve and want CCTV protection – as well as a presence from community officers.

Leah Sprot, 24, from Tillington, launched the petition following Mr Bagley’s death and was supported by more than 2,400 people – including his brother and cousin.

A single £17,000 CCTV camera – funded by developers who have built in the area – is due to be installed in September.

But Miss Sprot says several are urgently needed on the route. “I am concerned about the amount of incidents on The Great Western Way,” she said.

“All sections of this walk are an area of risk. It is a wonderful walk and well used by the people of Hereford to go to work, school and town and cuts time spent getting to destinations.

“It is increasingly becoming a no-go area for all lawabiding Hereford citizens.”

She added: “The issues are causing tension and distress and Herefordshire Council need to take appropriate action and protect all, irrelevant of cost.”

“How many more incidents and deaths, both reported and un-reported, need to happen before we are protected?”

At around 1am on Friday morning, Robert Mihai Buz murg , was walking along the Great Western Way towards Asda. The 23-year-old, who moved to the county three months ago, said he had walked through a group of people close to the bridge before one ran after him and hit him on the head.

Mr Buzamurga ran to the other end of the footpath and called police.

He spent several hours at hospital but, apart from a painful headache, was not seriously injured.

Mr Buzamurga, who is Romanian, said he does not believe the attack was racially motivated.

Police said a 46-year-old man was also attacked by a group of up to six young people close to the area, in the car park of Asda supermarket on Belmont Road, at around 11.20pm on Thursday night.

The victim was allegedly verbally abused before being punched in the face and had his head stamped on before the group made off towards the river path.

Two men aged 20 and 21 and a boy aged 15, all from Hereford, have been arrested on suspicion of affray in connection with the offences.

Two girls aged 16 and 17, and a boy aged 16 have also been arrested on suspicion of affray in connection with the second offence. They have all been released on bail until July 31.

Witnesses should call police on 101.