WEST Yorkshire Police has confirmed enquiries are ongoing after a Tory party donor made alleged racist comments about Diane Abbott.

Frank Hester, chief executive of Horsforth-based The Phoenix Partnership, is alleged to have said Ms Abbott, Britain's longest-serving black MP, made him "want to hate all black women" and that she "should be shot".

Mr Hester has admitted making "rude" comments, which were first published in an article in The Guardian, but said they had "nothing to do with her gender nor colour of skin".

In March, a West Yorkshire Police spokesperson said officers were "working to establish the facts and to ultimately ascertain whether a crime has been committed".

The force spokesperson added: "We recognise the strong reaction to these allegations and appreciate everyone who has contacted us since the article was published.

"As we continue our inquiry, we are keen to hear from anyone who could directly assist our investigation."

Today, the force spokesperson said "enquiries are ongoing" into the matter.

Mr Hester has donated a total of £15million to the Tories.

Anyone with information which might help officers with their investigation should call 101 or visit the live chat facility on the West Yorkshire Police website, using reference number 13240137018 or quoting 'Operation Brassminster'.