Norwich Puppet Man in stereo water attack gets apology

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-norfolk-33702897

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A man who threw water over a Norfolk busker's stereo has apologised after a photo of the incident caused a backlash on social media.

David Perry, known as the Puppet Man's equipment was damaged in Great Yarmouth on Tuesday by shopkeeper Ben Melhado.

He said he did it "in the heat of the moment" to stop the busker's "incessant noise", however he was photographed and reported to Norfolk Police.

Earlier Mr Melhado presented the Puppet Man with a new stereo.

After a photograph of the water incident was circulated on Facebook and Twitter, fans of the busker - who sings and performs with hand puppets, mainly in Norwich - rallied to his defence.

Comments ranged from "downright disrespectful" to "disgusting", "out of order" and "horrible".

'Not a bully'

The Puppet Man, 73, said: "He [Mr Melhado] said I was wrecking his business.

"Then he came back and threw the water."

The busker said he had not intended to cause any offence to anyone.

Mr Melhado, who owns a store in Victoria Arcade, said: "I'm very proud of the town that we live in and trade in, and the Puppet Man is making a mockery of the town. It doesn't give the right vibe.

"I said I was fed up with listening to this rubbish and then I poured a tiny bit of water over his stereo. It wasn't done out of malice and I'm certainly not a bully."

He said he was "liaising" with police regarding the incident and was "prepared to take the repercussions" of his action.

A police spokeswoman said the matter was brought to their attention via social media and they are now investigating.