A racist has been jailed for hurling abuse at a man in Essex and trying to fight him.

Officers responded to reports of a hate crime, where a man had been verbally and racially abused back in May.

It was reported that the victim, a man in his 30s, had been approached by another man, who began to verbally and racially abuse him, before attempting to start a fight with the victim.

After watching CCTV footage, speaking to those who witnessed the abusive behaviour, and finding the victim, police arrested a 24-year-old man on suspicion of committing Public Order offences, one of which was racially aggravated.

Michael White, 24, of Noakes Avenue, Chelmsford, was charged and appeared at Colchester Magistrates Court on Monday.

He admitted the offence, which took place in Harlow, during a short hearing.

He was sentenced to six months and 14 days in prison and ordered to pay £100 in costs.

Investigating officer, PC Emily Cross, from the Harlow Town Centre Team said: "Michael White's behaviour was abhorrent.

"I would like to thank the security staff who spoke up when they saw something wasn't right, reported it to us and helped us with the investigation.

"Thanks to their actions, we were able to give a vulnerable individual support and ultimately justice, and the person responsible was held accountable for his appalling actions."

Essex Police has a special advice page on its website on how to spot a hate crime, report it, or get help.

For more information, visit essexpolice.co.uk.