Former GB News presenter Kirsty Gallacher has urged authorities to increase police numbers on London’s streets and take stronger measures against violence targeting women and girls, following an assault she experienced in the capital last year.
The 50-year-old broadcaster was attacked by a man while making her way to her vehicle in central London.
Despite reporting the incident, the attacker remains unidentified.
Speaking to Sky News, Gallacher said violence against women had become almost normalised and was dismissed as “one of those things.”
She added: “That’s why women don’t report these crimes because also not enough is being done about it.”
The assault occurred in October at around 7pm as Gallacher walked through the capital’s streets.
Describing the attack, she recalled: “He turned around and kicked me – really kicked me – like he would kick a football.”
A security guard nearby failed to intervene during the incident.
Former GB News presenter Kirsty Gallacher has urged authorities to increase police numbers on London’s streets
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However, a group of young women passing by rushed over to check on her welfare.
Gallacher revealed the assault left her bruised and in a state of shock.
The attacker has never been traced despite CCTV footage reportedly capturing clear images of the suspect.
Gallacher expressed deep frustration at the absence of officers when she needed assistance most.
Kirsty Gallacher was attacked by a man while making her way to her vehicle in central London
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She said: “My biggest sadness or anger was there was not enough of a police presence. And we’re in central London and I was looking everywhere, like I almost wanted to shout, ‘please help me!'”
The presenter emphasised her wish for greater visibility of officers to help women feel protected in public spaces.
She also stressed the importance of authorities responding appropriately to all reports of assault.
Gallacher added: “I would like the police to take it seriously when women go ‘I’ve just been assaulted’ – even the most minor of assaults.”
Kirsty Gallacher said violence against women had become almost normalised
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The Metropolitan Police stated they remained “committed to tackling all forms of violence against women and girls” in response to Gallacher’s comments.
In a offical statement, they added: “Officers spoke with the victim in this case on several occasions to share updates as the investigation progressed.
“Our last contact with them was at the end of December when they were informed the investigation had been filed, but would be reopened if the suspect was identified. The suspect’s image remains in circulation across the Met.
“The investigation is closed at this time but will be reviewed if new information comes to light.”
Gallacher worked at GB News from June 2021 until December 2021.