A taxi driver who launched a foul mouthed tirade, making rape threats against Muslims who convert to Christianity, has been released under investigation.

Zaheer Hussain, 41, was arrested on suspicion of religiously aggravated harassment after a video emerged on social media in which he made the comments.

Hussain is a Hackney cab driver licensed by the council, a spokesman confirmed.

Preston City Council’s licensing department is also investigating the matter and may take action against Hussain such as stripping him of his licence.

The city council is responsible for licensing all black cabs in the city.

Since the video emerged, Hussain has recorded an apology, asking for forgiveness for any offence he has caused.

He said: “I realise now that my views can be very offensive not only to Christians but also to members of my own community.”

The video was filmed in Preston, with the car driving along the side of Moor Park.

Following his arrest a spokesman for Lancashire Police said: “We are committed to tackling all crime motivated by hate and prejudice and we would urge anyone who has been a victim of a hate crime to have the confidence to come forward and report it to police. ”

Anyone who feels they have been a victim of a hate crime can report it on 101.