An investigation has been launched after a suspected hate crime in South Shields.
At about 4.15pm on February 3, it was reported that a Metro employee had been verbally abused by a member of the public on King Street.
The offender hurled abuse at the victim before boarding a Metro train and leaving the area.
Go here for the latest crime news and breaking North East police updates
Police have now released images of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the incident.
A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: "Enquiries are ongoing into the incident, and as part of their investigation, officers have identified a person who they would like to speak to.
"They were in the area at the time and could have valuable information that can assist their investigation.
"The person, or anyone who knows them, is asked to contact police via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of our website or by calling 101 quoting crime number 014289S/22."
