CHESHIRE Police is urging more people to come forward and report disability hate crime.

Between September 2014 and August this year 765 incidents of hate crime were reported to the force.

Of these, 62 were disability related but officers believe the figure 'is just the tip of the iceberg'.

"It's recognised nationally that disability hate crime is under-reported," said deputy chief constable Janette McCormick.

"I urge everyone to take the time to report hate crime, whether you're the victim, a relative, a friend or a carer, we all play a part in tackling this abhorrent crime.

"Nobody should suffer abuse of any kind, and here in Cheshire we take this type of crime very seriously.

"Come and talk to us about hate crime, we'll listen and care – either by offering support ourselves or sign posting victims to the right services.

"We're here to support victims and our communities and will do all we can to bring offenders to justice."

To report hate crime call Cheshire Police on 101 or by visiting report-it.org.uk.

For further information visit cheshire.police.uk/advice-and-support/hate-crime.