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.