A mother-of-four has spoken of the fear she felt after being abused in a supermarket.

Rahela Chowdhury, 32, was in the Tesco in Burnley with her children when she was approached by John McDougall.

Speaking after McDougall was sentenced at Burnley Magistrates Court, she said: “He started abusing me, asking me why I was wearing the full veil.

“It was the first time anyone had shouted at me in this way. I was frozen and I didn’t know what to do.”

Rahela said she feared more for her children, two aged 12, one age 11 and one aged four.

She added: “My youngest started crying uncontrollably.”

The incident happened after 9pm on October 3, this year, and only ended when a member of staff intervened. Security officers then removed the offender.

Her husband Khalil said: “She has been out rarely since and is really fearful that it could happen again.

“It is very upsetting for her for someone to start shouting ‘‘Why can’t I see your face?’ “This was a very distressing incident for her and now I make sure I go out with her.”

Rahela urged other victims of racial abuse o come forward.

“The incident was reported and the person was in court.

“It has made me more fearful but at the same time I have become determined that I won’t let this change the way I am and who I am.”

John Steven McDougall, aged 50, of Colne Road in Earby, admitted a charge of using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour or disorderly behaviour thereby causing that or another person harassment, alarm or distress. The offence, which was racially aggravated, relates to Rahela and Tanu Miah. McDougall was ordered to undertake 200 hours unpaid work within 12 months, to pay a combined total of £100 compensation to the victims’ as well as a a £60 victim surcharge. He must also pay £85 costs and a £180 criminal court charge.

Jordan Steven McDougall, 28, of Padiham Road, Burnley, admitted using threatening or abusive words or behaviour or disorderly behaviour.

He received a conditional discharge for six months and ordered to pay a £15 victim surcharge and a £150 criminal court charge.