A headteacher has thanked families for their displays of support after homophobic graffiti targeting him was sprayed at his primary school.

They put up rainbow-coloured hearts and flags outside Hotspur Primary School in Heaton, Newcastle, in response to the abuse aimed at the head Miles Wallis-Clarke.

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Parents and children rallied round to support him after he wrote an online bulletin about the “hurtful and upsetting” experience.

Northumbria Police said it was investigating a hate crime.

Mr Wallis-Clarke wrote in his bulletin: “To be attacked for who you are is a horrible experience.

“Some people question the need for Pride celebrations or work in schools on equality and diversity.

“There is a need when there is this level of hatred for difference in our community.”

Mr Wallis-Clarke said in his online bulletin, published last week, that he had received support from the school, governors, his family and husband.

And after the shock of seeing the graffiti daubed on a path and on a building, the public response - with rainbow paintings and flags at the school’s entrances - has given him strength.

He told the chroniclelive.co.uk news site: “But from what was a hate crime so much love has come pouring out.”

Inspector Robert Stowers, of Northumbria Police, said an investigation was underway following the criminal damage overnight last week.

He said: “We are currently treating the incident as a hate crime and inquiries are ongoing.

“Nobody should be victimised for being who they are and we are taking this incident very seriously - and will take robust action against those responsible.”

Anyone with information was asked to call 101 or ring Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.