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A series of race-hate stickers have appeared on lamp-posts and bus stop windows in a coastal town - saying 'rapefugees not welcome’.

The Islamophobic and anti-immigration stickers, which are being investigated by police, show the logo of far-right group the North West Infidels.

The images display the name Mohammad and list of offensive statements underneath.

There is one stating 'Combat 18 operates in this area' and others state ' refugees not welcome'.

A sticker at the Market Place in South Shields, Tyne and Wear, just metres from the town's new library, insults refugees and portrays them as chasing a woman with knives.

A number of residents have noticed the images and have expressed their distaste at their content.

One female resident said: "I spotted the first one last month I phoned the council to get it removed.

"It's just not right, they shouldn't be there. They're awful.

(Image: SWNS)

"The council came out and removed it but more and more are appearing. There's quite a few in the area now.

"I've phoned the council back up and I've also reported them to the police - it needs to stop."

A 29-year-old, who did not wish to be named, described the stickers as "embarrassing" and said: "We have a brand new digital centre opening up next month which will hopefully attract lots of visitors, not just from our area, but further afield.

"Imagine if people end up seeing stickers like these?

"It's embarrassing to think visitors might believe we approve of such behaviour like this in South Shields.

"Well we don't, it's a multicultural town and there's no room for racism and hatred here."

When the North West Infidels were approached for comment, a member of the organisation tweeted: "I'm glad they're up and being seen."

South Shields Neighbourhood lnspector John Smith said the stickers will not be tolerated.

He said: "This type of literature will not be tolerated in South Shields and anyone caught posting them should expect to be put before the court.

"This material has been removed and anyone who has any information relating to the posters should contact the South Shields Neighbourhood Policing."

Councillor Moira Smith, lead member for Area Management and Community Safety at South Tyneside Council, said: "Reducing racism is one of the top priorities of the South Tyneside Community Safety Partnership and, as always, we are extremely concerned by these stickers appearing in public places.

"We are taking this very seriously and are removing them as quickly as we can. We are also working closely with our partners at Northumbria Police to try and stamp out this disgraceful behaviour. "

Earlier this month councillors reaffirmed their commitment to tackling any form of racism or xenophobia.

"I would appeal to members of the public who spot any of the offensive stickers to report it by calling 0191 427 7000."

She added: "Together we can remove them from our streets.

"Racism will not be tolerated in South Tyneside and we are working to create a society that is free from prejudice."