A RYDE man who hurled racist abuse at a police officer appeared before the Isle of Wight Magistrates' Court.

James Collyer, 31, of Thorton Manor, admitted one count of racially aggravated abuse.

The court heard from prosecutor, Liz Miller, how on September 16, police had been called to an ongoing incident in which it was suggested Collyer had assaulted his partner.

Police arrived at the Sandown address and arrested Collyer.

In the back of the police car, Collyer directed a racist remark laden with expletives toward one of the attending officers.

In a statement read out to the court, the officer described how extremely offended he was by the remark.

He said he had attended the address with the intention to help, and that there was no need to bring his race into the equation.

Ms Miller said Collyer had been motivated by hostility based on the victim's race.

James Cameron, defending, said Collyer ­— an alcoholic ­— had accepted he'd made an offensive comment.

He said Collyer made a one-off comment, angry after asking police officers for a T-shirt to wear and being refused.

Collyer was bailed and had his case adjourned for sentencing on December 14.

Update: Collyer was given a 12-month community order to include 25 rehabilitation days and a 16-week curfew from 6pm to 6am. He must pay a surcharge of £95, and costs of £150.