Police Investigate Racist Tweets Towards Manchester City Player

Police investigating reports of racist abuse made using Twitter towards Manchester City footballer Micah Richards are appealing for information from the public.

Lincolnshire Police launched an investigation after angry fans contacted them about comments posted on the 23-year-old defender's official Twitter page, OfficalMR2.

Twitter user WillMadine94 tweeted ``You big fat n***** u r s***. Martin Kelly over u all day for england. Play for africa!!!'' on the footballer's page.

Richards later replied on his page: ``Love the racist abuse. Keep it coming.''

The matter is being investigated by Lincolnshire Police, who believe the offender to be from the Lincolnshire area.

Detective Inspector Andy Wardell, from Skegness CID, said, ``Whilst the investigation is still in its early stages, Lincolnshire Police will be conducting a robust inquiry and wish to make it clear from the outset that racist comments aimed at anybody, not just those in the media spotlight, will not be tolerated and those committing such offences can expect to be pursued and dealt with under the relevant legislation.''

Anyone with information is asked to contact Skegness police station or to contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Following the incident, a spokesman for Manchester City FC said they were aware that police were investigating the matter and did not want to comment further on the incident at present.

A Premier League spokesman said: ``The Premier League and our clubs are opposed to all forms of discrimination and, when appropriate, it is right that the authorities take action in this area.''