A SPORTS centre staff member was verbally abused by a man who was annoyed he couldn't use a football pitch for free. 

The incident happened at the Shrub End Sports Ground, in Colchester. 

A man had gone into the premises and asked the member of staff if he could use the football pitch.

But when he was told he could hire the pitches or play on the public area he became verbally abusive.

The man was wearing a top with a military badge. A second man was waiting outside for him.

The incident took place on August 11. The exact time is not known.

Anyone with information should contact PC Ryan Morrison at the Colchester LPT on 101.

Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via an Anonymous Online Form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.