POLICE are on the trail of a group of young men who hurled homophobic abuse at a shopper in Erskine.

The 24-year-old victim was walking towards Bargarran Shopping Centre when he was confronted by the gang, believed to be aged between 18 and 25, at around 2.30pm on Saturday.

He was subjected to further homophobic abuse by the group after leaving the shopping centre.

Inspector Allan O’Hare, head of community policing for Renfrewshire, said: "Police Scotland does not tolerate this behaviour and we are very keen to trace those responsible.

"I would ask anyone who witnessed this abuse outside the shopping centre or recognises the group who hang around this area to please get in touch."

Anyone with information should call the police on 101.