TWO reports of racial comments made to members of the public following the Brexit vote has prompted Cumbria Police and Crime Commissioner to issue a stern warning about hate crime.

Peter McCall said any crime is unacceptable, but hate crime in particular has a dramatic impact on people’s lives, and undermines communities. He added that it would not be tolerated.

"I would strongly encourage anyone who has experienced or witnessed a hate crime or hate incident to come forward and report it and I can assure you it will be treated seriously," he said.

"This is the only way we can stamp out hate crime in the county."

Detective Chief Inspector Roy Ledingham, Cumbria Constabulary’s hate crime lead, said: “Following the EU referendum, Cumbria Constabulary have received two reports of racial hate comments made to members of the public. Both of these instances occurred in west Cumbria.

“Hate crime will not be tolerated in this county and any allegation will be fully investigated. Such crimes can leave a long-lasting effect on the victim and there is simply no excuse for someone to be subjected to such abuse.”

Police are appealing for anyone who has witnessed or has information regarding hate crimes to come forward and make contact with Cumbria Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

You can also report hate crime online at www.cumbria.police.uk or by visiting one of the 49 Hate Incident Reporting Centres located throughout the county; a list of locations can be found at www.cumbria.police.uk/advice-and-information/reporting-a-crime/hate-incident-reporting-centres.