A MAN who hurled racist abuse at a worker in a sandwich shop before damaging the store and stealing a drink has been given a curfew.

Adam Main, 31, of Sutton Avenue, Peacehaven, rowed with a member of staff at|Subway, in Old Steine, Brighton, on Monday May 12.

He also shouted racist abuse at the staff member, damaged a chair, floor tiles and a door frame during the incident.

He pleaded guilty at Brighton Magistrates' Court on June 5 to intentionally causing racially aggravated harassment, alarm or distress, criminal damage and theft.

Under the terms of a community order he will be under curfew from 8pm to 8am for the next 12 months.

He must also address his alcohol problems and pay a total of £200 in fines, a victim surcharge and costs.

Sergeant Peter Allan, Sussex Police’s hate crime sergeant, said the sentence showed a “robust approach” to hate crimes.

He hoped it would encourage other victims to report incidents of hate crimes to the police.

He said: “I am pleased the court has declared the abuse Adam Main hurled at the takeaway staff to have been racist in nature and sentenced him accordingly.

“This sentence sends out a clear signal that we will take a robust approach to those who target individuals based on their race, disability, gender identity, religion or sexual|orientation.

"I hope this case will encourage other victims of hate crime to report such behaviour to the police.

“Hate crime can be reported to us by calling 101 or emailing 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk in an emergency.” Crimestoppers are on 0800 555 111.