West Midlands Police is being examined over the way it dealt with an allegation of racial assault by an Asian store manager.

The man was assaulted by a white customer at a Birmingham retail park who, he claimed, made racist comments.

The victim was left traumatised by the incident. His attacker was arrested before being cautioned and released.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) said the handling of the case raised "serious questions".

The attack took place in March 2006 and the store manager was subsequently unable to work for a prolonged period as a result of the trauma.

IPCC Commissioner John Crawley said: "Whilst the police response to the initial incident was a prompt one, the manner and speed at which the police disposed of this matter raises serious questions, especially if there was evidence of racial aggravation and it was not properly considered in accordance with the law.

"We will be seeking to establish the facts of this incident and what actions were taken by officers during the course of this investigation."

The investigation will be led by IPCC Investigator Greg Reilly assisted by officers from West Midlands Police Professional Standards Department.