A man threatened staff at a takeaway with a gun in what police are treating as a racially motivated crime, it emerged today.

He walked into Sobs takeaway in Dyke Road, Brighton, threatening and racially abusing the workers.

They refused to serve him and he left, then returned a few minutes later with a gun and threatened to shoot them.

Detective Sergeant Simon Cramp, of Brighton police's anti-victimisation unit, said: "That went on for about three minutes and then the man left the shop.

"There were customers in the shop at the time and they were very upset at what they witnessed."

The incident happened at about 9pm last Sunday but police have only now released details.

A man has since been arrested and released on police bail.

Police are appealing for three witnesses in particular to come forward.

They are a young woman and an elderly couple who were seen getting into a taxi outside the burger bar.

Mr Cramp said: "We also believe the man may have brandished the gun while in the street and are appealing to anyone who may have seen him to come forward."

Anyone with information should contact Detective Sergeant Phil Aldred or Mr Cramp on 01273 665502.