Police are investigating further reports of racist graffiti outside a mosque in Preston.

The Masjid-e-Salaam had 'Fuck Off Pakis' daubed on two gateposts outside the building in Watling Street Road on Friday.

At 10:45pm yesterday (20 April) police said they were made aware of a second instance of writing being found on a gate post outside Masjid E Salaam Mosque on Watling Street in Preston.

Another report came in at around 6:15am today (21 April) that more offensive writing had been added to the same gate post.

Ch Inspector Gary Crowe of Preston Police, said: “There have now been three reports in a matter of days and this is understandably causing a lot of upset and concern in the local community. I would like to reassure people, especially worshippers in the area, that we are taking this extremely seriously.

“This is completely unacceptable, hateful vandalism and this kind of behaviour will not be tolerated.

“We are working to get the most recent graffiti removed as quickly as possible and would like to thank the community for their support with our investigation so far.

“We will continue to maintain a presence in the area and are following up on forensic and CCTV enquiries.

“I would urge anyone with any information at all to speak to us as soon as possible.”

If you have any information please call 101 quoting log number 424 of 21st April.