An investigation has been launched after a male reportedly spat repeatedly at a North East transfer hub employee.

Northumbria Police are investigating an assault which reportedly took place at South Shields Interchange on Keppel Street at around 10am on April 3.

It was reported a male approached a member of staff before becoming aggressive and spitting at them several times.

Police have released an image of a man they would like to trace.

A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: “Officers investigating an assault in South Tyneside have released an image of a man they want to identify.

“At around 10am on Wednesday, April 3, police received a report of an assault at South Shields Interchange on Keppel Street.

“It was reported that a male approached a member of staff and became aggressive before spitting at him several times.

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“Enquiries are ongoing into the circumstances surrounding the incident, and police have today (Wednesday) released the image of a man who they would like to trace.

“He was in the area at the time of the incident and officers believe he could have valuable information that may assist the ongoing investigation.

“The man, or anyone who recognises him, is asked to contact police via the 'Report' page on the Northumbria Police website or by calling 101, quoting crime reference 038080J/24.”