AN alleged racially-motivated attack against a black schoolboy has shaken Carlisle's community.

Four teenage boys, all from Carlisle, were arrested but have since been bailed with conditions after the alleged assault on a young black student in the Upperby area of Carlisle on Friday, March 15.

A video of the alleged attack was shared online and went viral over the weekend.

Carlisle's Mayor Abdul Harid has said the incident presents a negative image of the city at a time when it should be moving forward.

“Here I am promoting Carlisle, not just in the north of England, London and everywhere I go, I promote it as a city that welcomes people,” Carlisle’s Mayor said.

"This kind of incident sends the wrong message, especially to people from minority communities – it doesn't look good.

“The University of Cumbria is working to expand and invite students from abroad, if those students see this kind of incident happening, they may decide not to come to Carlisle.

“We want to encourage people to come to the city, live and work here – a city that we can be proud of.

“This isn’t the 70s or 80s anymore, the whole country has changed as have people’s attitudes, this is what we want to see going forward,” he said.

Since the incident, police patrols have been stepped up in the Upperby area.

Carlisle’s MP John Stevenson described the reported incident as ‘clearly troubling’.

"Such incidents have no place in our society and must be dealt with in a timely manner," he said.

"Of course, we must leave the actual investigation to the police.

"However, it is extremely important that we as a society do not tolerate racism or bullying activities."

One business owner who was born, raised, and lives in Carlisle, said of the incident and its fallout: “It’s quite shocking in this day and age, and it casts a massive shadow over the city.

“What kind of message is this giving to the people the city is trying to attract? Why would you want to come now?”

Investigations are currently ongoing.