Police are investigating after an alleged racially aggravated assault against a shop worker in North Shields.
Detectives have now released a CCTV image of a man they want to speak to following the incident.
On the morning of September 5, it was reported that a man entered the Moore Park News shop on Darras Drive despite being barred.
After being asked to leave by a member of staff, the man refused and then racially abused the female victim – before removing his backpack and swinging it dangerously towards her.
The bag collided with the victim’s arm, causing substantial pain, while the incident itself caused her significant distress.
An investigation has been launched into the incident, which police are treating as a hate crime.
A spokesperson for Northumbria Police said: "Today, officers have released an image of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the investigation.
"He was in the area at the time of the offence and could have valuable information that can assist police.
"The man, or anyone who recognises him, is asked to contact police via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of our website or by calling 101 quoting log 366 050920."
