POLICE have released CCTV images after a mural was defaced with racist graffiti.

The incident happened at the Arthur Wharton Foundation, in Darlington, in the early hours of Saturday.

Racist graffiti was left overnight on the wall outside the centre in Drury Street, which was painted this week as a show of solidarity with the three black England players who received abuse following the Euros final. 

READ MORE: Arthur Wharton Foundation vandalised with racist graffiti

Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka all received racial abuse following the match. 

Police released a CCTV image of a person they would like to speak to in connection with the incident. 

READ MORE: Stand up to Racism Darlington show solidarity with Rashford, Saka nd Sancho

READ MORE: Darlington mural supports England players after racial abuse

A spokesperson for Durham Police said: "We are investigating an incident where criminal damage was caused to a property in Drury Street, Darlington in the early hours of Saturday 17 July 2021.

"The CCTV images are of a man who we would like to speak with in connection with this incident.

"If anyone knows who this male is or can provide any information in respect of this incident, please contact 101 and ask for PC 1704 Young or alternatively email antony.young@durham.police.uk.

"Crime number CRI00345818 refers to this investigation."

It happened hours after Stand up to Racism Darlington held an event at the foundation to show solidarity with the players.

The Northern Echo:

A crowd gathered there on Friday evening to show their support for the men. 

The Arthur Wharton Foundation was set up in tribute to the world's first black professional footballer, who played for Darlington.

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