They hurled a brick, covered in offensive racist comments and a message of support for the British National Party, which shattered the front window of Deli Polska, on Barnsley Road.

This is not the first time the shop has been attacked by racist vandals.

During its first year of opening, it was targeted five times by yobs, who smashed windows, hurled abuse, wrote racist obscenities on the windows and pelted the shop with eggs.

Karl Brown used to run the shop, but is relocating to Wakefield’s new market hall.

He said: “The racist attacks did not drive me out – the people who do that sort of thing are just cowards. It is very disappointing.

“I have another shop in Wakefield and I don’t have any problem with racism there – it is just in this area.”

And on the day voters go the polling station, the BNP has distanced itself from the attack.

BNP spokesman Simon Darby said: “We do not condone that kind of behaviour. It is not the fault of Polish people here and no-one can blame them for seeking a better kind of life.”

Police are now investigating the incident.

Sgt Albert Yeoman, from the South Kirkby neighbourhood police team, said: “We will not tolerate racist attacks. Anyone caught will feel the full force of the law.

“We do not treat these kinds of incidents lightly. They have a serious impact on the community and wherever possible we will prosecute.”

Anyone with any information about the crime should contact PC Alan Tissington on 01924 295413.