Police are investigating alleged racist graffiti outside a mosque in Preston.

Masjid E Salaam in Watling Street Road has two racist slurs on two pillars along the front of the mosque.

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Labour Garrison ward, in Fulwood, candidate Freddie Bailey tweeted the two pictures.

He said: “I am absolutely disgusted. There is no excuse for this act of hate.”

The graffiti appeared overnight from Thursday (18 April) into Good Friday (19 April). Two further incidents have taken place during Saturday night and Sunday morning.

The mosque has posted on Twitter to say the graffiti has now been removed from both of the pillars.

A spokesperson said: “Our mosque is open for all and do not harbour any evil for those who wish otherwise.”

Preston Police have been informed and anyone with information can call police on 101.

Chief Inspector Gary Crowe of Preston Police said: “Hate incidents and crimes of any kind are not acceptable. There is no place for hate in Lancashire.

“We are making a number of enquiries, including looking at CCTV, to find out who is responsible for this crime. We are maintaining contact with the mosque and patrols have been increased in the area.

“If you have any information or saw anything suspicious in the area last night or in the early hours of this morning, please come forward.”

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