Dover councillor apologises over 'racist' Facebook post

A councillor in Kent has been suspended from the Conservative Party while it investigates an apparently racist comment he made on Facebook.

Dover District Councillor Bob Frost appeared to make comments about black people during an online conversation about the recent riots.

Mr Frost, a teacher, has apologised "unreservedly" and deleted the posts.

Deputy Council Leader Sue Chandler said: "There is no place in our society for this kind of language."

She added: "We have therefore suspended Councillor Frost from the Conservative Group pending investigation."

The comment was made while Mr Frost was having a conversation on the social-networking site, alluding to the London riots while he was on holiday.

On his status he wrote: "I'm missing the vibrant and multi-cultural society which I normally celebrate here in Sicily! Not!"

It was then suggested by someone else on Facebook that he take a trip to north London.

He replied: "All the bunnies here are of the woodland variety rather than the jungle."

Sola Afuape, chair of the equality charity Afiya Trust, said: "You don't expect somebody in a position of power, in a leadership position, to make comments like this.

"They're clearly offensive - racist in fact."

In a statement, Mr Frost said: "What I said was wrong and I apologise unreservedly.

"I am mortified by the offence that I have caused and have deleted these comments.

"I am very sorry."