Police have appealed for supporters to help them catch the 'fan' who directed vile abuse to Port Vale goalkeeper Connor Ripley at Carlisle United.

The visiting player said someone in the Warwick Road End had told him to "go and hang yourself" during Monday's game.

United have condemned the incident and apologised to Ripley and his club.

Cumbria Police have now issued a statement about the matter, saying they are reviewing footage in a bid to identify the culprit.

They are urging the perpetrator to come forward, and also asking for fans with information to contact police.

"Cumbria Police is aware of the incident during the Port Vale home fixture and is working with Carlisle United to identify the person or people responsible," the force's statement said.

"Such behaviour is unacceptable.

"Cumbria Police will be reviewing all footage from cameras inside the ground, including the supporter-facing camera inside the Warwick Road End goal as part of enquiries.

"Officers call on the person or people responsible to come forward.

"Whilst we welcome the condemnation of abuse by supporters, we also urge those who were in the area behind the goal at the time and who may have information which could assist officers to come forward.

"Cumbria Police has worked and will continue to work positively and collaboratively with Carlisle United whenever such issues arise.

"Going forward, it is important that abuse is reported by witnesses as swiftly as possible to stewards and police officers to allow action to be taken against those responsible.

"Anyone with information relating to this incident can report online at www.cumbria.police.uk/reportit. You can also phone on 101.

"Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

"People can also directly contact Football Policing Lead, Inspector Kim Brown Kim.Brown@cumbria.police.uk or Dedicated Football Officer for CUFC, Police Constable Jonathan Sunley Jonathan.Sunley2@cumbria.police.uk"

Ripley, who said the incident took place in the second half of Carlisle's 2-1 victory, described the comments "from a couple of fans" as "disgusting".

United said one young 'fan' was responsible for the "prolonged abuse" and said they condemned the remarks in the strongest possible terms.