POLICE are searching for witnesses after a group of men allegedly launched vile racist abuse at people drinking in a popular pub.

Officers were called to the Playhouse in St John's Street, Colchester, shortly before 6pm on Wednesday after reports the group had used racial slurs and had threatened bar staff and customers.

Police attended and arrested two 43-year-old men from Colchester under the Public Order Act on suspicion of causing intentional harassment, alarm or distress.

They have both been released on bail until January 22.

Anyone with further information about the incident who has not yet spoken to police about hte incident at the Wetherspoons is asked to call us on 101 quoting the crime reference number 42/997/19.

Witnesses can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.