A Herefordshire man who verbally attacked a refugee in a park has been fined.

Diago Biddle, 18, of Foster Crescent in Leominster, Herefordshire pleaded guilty of racially or religiously aggravated intentional harassment, alarm, or distress.

He was sentenced on Saturday 13 January at Hereford Magistrates’ Court where he was ordered to pay a total of £365, which includes a victim surcharge and court costs.

PC Stobbart said: “Biddle’s behaviour was abhorrent and completely unacceptable; this type of behaviour will simply not be tolerated by West Mercia Police.

“I would like to commend the victim in coming forward and reporting this racist verbal attack.

“I hope this highlights hate crime will be taken seriously and encourage people to report via 101 or through our website at www.westmercia.police.uk