POLICE say an increase in the number of hate crime cases towards children comes down to changes in the way incidents are reported.

Figures show there has been a 155 percent rise in the number of racial hate crimes reported against youngsters over the last three years but officers say they are committed to tackling the "abhorrent" crimes.

GMP Detective Sergeant May Preston explained that the increase in offences can be partially explained by a national change in the way police forces report crime, with more offences being reported before they are fully investigated, and that this is echoed across the country.

“Tackling hate in our communities must be a priority for us all and people should be able to go about their daily lives free from hate and abuse," Det Sgt Preston said.

“We work closely with communities and our partners to encourage people to report incidents and will work quickly where we can to deal with offenders.

“While we recognise that there has been an increase in hate crime reports over the last few years, this is in line with the national picture as a result of changes to the way that Forces record such crime. In part, the increase is also a reflection of the significant amount of work being undertaken across Greater Manchester to encourage victims to come forward and report incidents. It’s also important to remember the impact that national and international events can have on this issue and influence trends."

She went on to say that there was an increase in reported hate crime cases following the 2017 Manchester Arena terror attack but praised the work of local communities in reducing this rise in the following years.

Anyone who experiences a hate crime is urged to report it on 101 or report it via the Live Chat function at www.gmp.police.uk.

You can also report online by visiting www.report-it.org.uk.