A MAN in his 30s was racially abused inside a Shell petrol station.

The incident, which police say is a case of racially aggravated public order, happened between 9am and 9.20am on Tuesday, September 3 inside the Shell petrol station on the northbound A34 at Sutton Scotney services.

The victim, who is a man in his 30s, was racially abused and threatened.

The incident has sparked a police appeal for witnesses to come forward.

A statement from Hampshire Constabulary reads: "We are appealing for witnesses to a racially aggravated public order incident which was reported to us on Tuesday 3 September.

"The incident occurred inside the Shell petrol station on the northbound A34 at Sutton Scotney services. It’s reported to have taken place between 9am and 9.20am.

"During the incident, the victim – a man in his 30s – was verbally abused and threatened.

"We are keen to hear from anyone who was inside the petrol station at the time and witnessed anything of the incident.

"If you have any information which might assist in our investigation, including any footage, please call 101 and quote incident number 44240381724.

"You can also report online via the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary website, below;

"How to tell us about an existing case or report | Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary

"You can also contact Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111."