CITY are appealing for witnesses after a report of racist abuse during last night’s EFL Trophy game against Manchester City under-21s.

Referee Ben Toner halted the match in the second half after a remark was made in the main stand and reported to officials by Kevin McDonald in the Bantams’ dug-out.

The club are now helping West Yorkshire Police with their investigation and studying CCTV footage to identify the individual concerned and take strong action.

City have revealed an increase in the number of racial hate crime incidents reported at Valley Parade this season.

A club statement said: “Bradford City AFC does not tolerate racism, or any form of discrimination, and urges any spectator who may experience or witness any examples of this to report it as quickly - and in as much detail - as possible, in order to ensure the club is able to suitably act upon it.

“Any spectator found to be demonstrating racist abuse or any form of discrimination, will be indefinitely suspended - with information reported to the police - though the likelihood of this being possible is significantly increased, should incidents be reported at the time of their occurrence.”

Fans can report incident via the confidential matchday texting service on 07949 814243 or by emailing reportdiscrimination@bradfordcityafc.com.

City are urging anyone with information about last night’s events to get in touch.