COLCHESTER United have backed Barrow's quest to bring to justice anyone responsible for the alleged racist abuse suffered by goalkeeper Shamal George in the League Two game between the two sides.

A complaint of racist abuse, directed towards U's keeper George from the section of Barrow fans behind the goal the visitors were defending, was made by Colchester during the first half of their 3-2 victory in the League Two encounter on Friday night, at the Dunes Hotel Stadium.

It prompted referee Simon Mather to temporarily halt the game after the abuse was reported, after conversing with George and U's skipper Tommy Smith.

The complaint was then formally announced by the Barrow PA system, with the message also declaring that such behaviour will not be tolerated at Barrow and that any racism should be reported.

Colchester are supporting Barrow in their aim to find and punish 'any person or persons responsible'.

In a statement issued today, the U's said: 'Following the reports of racial abuse aimed at Shamal George, Colchester United support Barrow’s intention to find and punish any person or persons responsible.

'Like Barrow, Colchester United would like to make it absolutely clear that we abhor discrimination in all its forms.

'We would also like to commend Barrow in the effective way that they used the protocols available, and for their swift declaration that they will take the strongest action possible, including pursuing life bans, for anyone found guilty of racism.

'Colchester United will do everything we can to assist their and any subsequent EFL or criminal investigation into this matter.

'No person, in football or in our wider society, should have to be subjected to this discrimination or abuse and we will support Shamal in any way that he needs it.

'If you see or hear any discrimination at a football stadium, report it to the nearest steward or via the Kick It Out Reporting App.'