A man was racially abused by another customer in a Costcutter shop.
Police have launched an investigation into the incident which happened in the Wallsend store on Station Road.
At around 6pm on May 26 a man entered the shop and is alleged to have racially abused another man.
Enquiries to identify the man are ongoing but police have now released an image of someone they want to speak to who was in the shop at the time of the incident and may be able to help officers with their enquiries.
Sergeant Steve Hakin, of Northumbria Police , said: “This is a vile incident of verbal abuse that is completely unacceptable.
“We are treating this as a hate crime and will be offering the victim as much support as they need.
“Anyone who recognises the man in the picture we have released is encouraged to contact officers as he may be able to assist our investigation.”
The man, or anyone who knows his identity, is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference 067430Y/19 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
You can also contact police online at www.northumbria.police.uk
