A man from Tottenham has been convicted after putting a pillowcase over a pregnant woman’s head before repeatedly punching her.

Keith Gowers, 59, followed his victim along a street in Hackney before launching the random unprovoked attack just before 6.30pm on March 18 this year.

The victim, who was set upon from behind, suffered a cut lip and thumb during the attack where she was punched to her head and torso. Her glasses also broke during the assault.

Gowers fled the area leaving behind the pillowcase he had used to cover the victim’s head.

The victim was taken to hospital as a precaution.

The attack went viral after the Jewish community’s Shomrim posted a video of the attack in an attempt to find the perpetrator.

He was soon identified by police and arrested on 22 March 22.

Varinder Hayre, from the CPS, said: “This was an unprovoked and shocking attack on a woman who was six months' pregnant at the time. It is fortunate that her unborn child suffered no serious harm.

“The victim had never encountered Keith Gowers before and was left incredibly shaken.

“The prosecution case included CCTV footage of the disturbing attack on the lone victim which clearly identified Gowers as the attacker.

“He also admitted to being the person caught on camera.”

Gowers appeared at Thames Magistrates’ Court today (Friday, 10 September 2021) where he admitted one count of assault by beating. He will be sentenced on 1 October 2021.