A TOP cop has vowed to rid Scotland of 'hate crime and bigots' after a priest was assaulted during the annual Boyne parade.

Enquiries are continuing into the incident on Saturday July 7 which saw the 43-year-old priest being spat on and verbally abused around 5.15pm outside St Alphonsus’ Church.

The identity of the offender remains unknown but there are reports of a man aged between 20 and 30 with a shave head being involved.

Read more: John Hannah slams ‘fascist f***wits’ after Catholic priest is ‘spat at and hit with baton’ during Orange march

The Orange March was passing the church at the time of incident and police are appealing to anyone involved in the parade to contact them as they have information to help identify those responsible.

However, the force have confirmed that there is nothing to indicate any involvement by a member of the parade.

A second report of a young man attempting to strike the priest with a baton while parishioners were leaving the vigil Mass is also being followed up by investigators.

Superintendent John McBride said: “We will not tolerate any form of hate crime and behaving in such a way is contemptible.

"I would like to assure everyone that those who choose to react in a sectarian or religiously motivated matter will be identified and dealt with under the law.

Read more: John Hannah slams ‘fascist f***wits’ after Catholic priest is ‘spat at and hit with baton’ during Orange march

"I’m deeply shocked that some people think this is an acceptable way to act – it isn’t.

"The public can be assured we remain committed to ridding our country of hate crime and the bigots within it who think they won’t be held to account for their actions. I can tell you they will.”

“From our enquiries carried out so far, we are aware of several people commenting online regarding this incident and I would urge anyone with any footage or information about this particular incident to contact us as the footage could aid our enquiries.

"I am also appealing to those who were taking part in the Orange Parade, who may have seen the incident as they were walking past, to contact us and pass on any information.

Read more: John Hannah slams ‘fascist f***wits’ after Catholic priest is ‘spat at and hit with baton’ during Orange march

"Any small detail could prove vital to identifying whoever is responsible.

"Anyone with information is asked to contact CID officers at Shettleston Police Station via 101. Alternatively, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously."