Herts Police is handing out a tough message that hate and race crimes will not be tolerated following Britain’s decision to leave the EU.

The force says there have been 33 recorded racially and religiously aggravated offences across the county since the referendum on June 23.

This includes three in Stevenage.

The force says the figures are in line with what it was experiencing previously but is very keen to show there will be no toleration of the crimes escalating.

The force issued a statement saying: “Personal uncertainty or prejudicial views about immigration in the wake of the referendum result are not excuses for anti-social behaviour or for direct insults and abuse to be directed towards anyone who lives or works in our community because of their race.

“Police in North Herts will continue to take swift action when complaints are made and are reminding people that making hate comments or verbal threats to others can be constituted as a criminal offence.”

Recently appointed Stevenage Chief Inspector Tannis Perks said: “Stevenage is a very diverse town, with many different communities who have lived harmoniously alongside each other for years and have also been very welcoming to new communities.

“Since my arrival, I have been pleased to be told by my teams that there is a strong sense of community spirit in Stevenage and that is why when incidents of hate crime occur, my teams will take positive action.

“These types of offences remain rare, but like any offence where this is a victim someone has been affected.”

Councillor Sharon Taylor, leader of Stevenage Borough Council, added: “Nobody should be subjected to harassment or abuse because of their race or ethnicity. We have a strong, diverse community spirit in Stevenage, which means we do not tolerate this sort of behaviour.”

Anyone who witnesses hate or race crime should call 101.