Council bosses in Manchester have condemned the defacing of a George Floyd mural with racist graffiti as "utterly sickening".

They are examining CCTV footage to try to identify the vandal who is thought to have struck at the memorial in Stevenson Square some time between Tuesday night and the early hours of Wednesday.

The mural was painted by Manchester street artist Akse P19 in tribute to Mr Floyd, who died after being arrested by police in Minneapolis, with footage of an officer kneeling on his neck sparking global protests.

Akse P19 later restored the portrait by repairing the damage himself.

Nigel Murphy, deputy leader of Manchester City Council, said: "It is utterly sickening that this type of behaviour exists in our society.

"We are currently reviewing CCTV footage in the area and we will do everything we can to find out who committed this abhorrent crime.

"Manchester is a place that celebrates our diversity and we will not tolerate hate in our city.

"I'm happy to confirm that the artist who was responsible for the mural has already repaired the damage and restored the mural. A huge thank you for their quick action to put right a wrong that has rightly left many people disturbed that this behaviour exists in our society."

Greater Manchester Police said: "At around 8.20am on Wednesday, officers were on a routine patrol in the Northern Quarter area of Manchester city centre when they found racially aggravated criminal damage in Stevenson Square.

"An investigation is under way. No arrests have been made."

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting 610 of 22/07/20 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.

By Kim Pilling