TWO thugs racially abused a taxi driver before kicking dents in the back of his car.

Officers investigating have released this image of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the incident.

The driver was dropping the men off along Smithills Dean Road at around 1.25am on Saturday, September 27, when they started to racially abuse the Asian driver. The pair then got out and started kicking the back of the green Ford Galaxy, denting its back door and panel and smashing a back light.

The men then walked off towards Smithills Coaching House.

One was white, stocky and wearing a blue T-shirt. He was 5ft 8in tall.

The other man was also white, of medium build, and about 5ft 5in tall.

PC Andy Sharkey said: “We know that this was a few weeks ago, but maybe the picture will jog the memories of those who were in the area.

“The victim was abused and his taxi was damaged for no good reason.”

Anyone with any information is asked to call police on 0161 856 5661 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.