Experiencing racism as a young footballer means West Midlands Police's new hate crime officer will be able to help and support others who face discrimination.

PC Stuart Ward will work to help "stamp out rising abuse against footballers and fans - which has become increasingly prevalent online," the force said.
His role, thought to be that of the first dedicated hate crime officer based in a football unit, will include investigating complaints of hate crime linked to football, monitoring online interactions and working with the region’s clubs.
He said receiving abuse himself from another player, and no-one doing anything about it, means he knows the impact it can have. Read more here: