Verbal abuse aimed at people from overseas since the Brexit vote has prompted St Albans council to warn that action will be taken against any hate crime in the district.

Following the ballot in favour of leaving the European Union on June 23, a small number of hate crime incidents have been reported to the council and subsequently passed on to police.

And the council has warned that it will take action over any allegations of abuse involving its tenants, customers or staff and will help people report instances of hate crime to police as well as direct them to a national website which such instances are reported.

Last year, a survey of 4,000 residents for a community survey of the district revealed that relations among different groups were very good.

Of those surveyed, 88% believed people from different backgrounds got on well together in their local area. For non-white residents, that figure was 95%.

The council also has a community engagement team that works to improve cohesion across the district.

Council leader, Cllr Julian Daly, said: “Community relations in the district are excellent and the number of hate crimes that have been reported to us recently is very small.

“However, we cannot be complacent and the council is determined to ensure that community cohesion in the St Albans district is not undermined in any way.”

St Albans Chief Inspector Shane O’Neill added: “Anyone who feels they have been the victim of a hate crime should contact their local police on 101 who will investigate and take appropriate action.

“Alternatively you can report it to the national charity True Vision by texting 07786 207091 or click here.