A COUPLE found themselves on the end of a stream of racial abuse after they objected to having snowballs thrown at their car, a court heard.

Gurjot Singh and his wife were subjected to a volley of vile abuse outside the Asda store in Wrexham, but Mrs Singh was able to take a photograph of the perpetrators which helped identify Wayne Williams.

Prosecutor Rhian Jackson said Mr Singh was with his family when he noticed a child with a snowball in his hand. When the youngster threw it at his car he remonstrated with Williams, but that sparked a volley of vitriol.

"Both Mr Singh and his wife heard Williams shout "F... off you P..ki bastard"," said the prosecutor.

"They were shocked and although Mr Singh told him to watch his mouth, he shouted "P...ki bastards go back to where you come from"."

Mr Singh got back into his car while his wife was speaking to Williams, but more snowballs were thrown at the vehicle.

Williams later apologised for throwing snowballs, but said he had not used the word "P..ki".

The 34-year-old, of Bryn Hafod, Caia Park, Wrexham denied racially aggravated harassment and threatening behaviour on December 12 last year. He was found guilty on both charges at trial and appeared at Wrexham Magistrates' Court for sentence.

Mr Ian Barnes, defending, claimed the racially aggravated offence was out of character, while probation officer Tracey Flavell noted: "He [Williams] continues to stand by his not guilty plea and says he didn't act in the way described. But he accepts the ruling of the court.

"He does have some difficulties as he is waiting an assessment for adult ADHD and he is also prescribed medication for depression."

Magistrates imposed a six-month community order and told Williams to undergo a 15-day rehabilitation activity requirement to address his attitude to racial issues.

He was fined £120, ordered to pay compensation of £100 to the Singhs and told to pay costs of £420 and a victim surcharge of £85.