The Lord Mayor of Liverpool has been stripped of his title after just two months.
Councillor Peter Brennan was asked to step down from the ceremonial position following revelations he had shared a racist video to a WhatsApp group.
In the offending post, Brennan had compared a black person to a monkey.
Council leader Joe Anderson condemned Brennan’s actions as ‘inexcusable and unforgivable’ and requested that he resign his position with immediate effect.
Mayor Anderson also confirmed that news of Brennan’s video emerged on the 14th anniversary of Anthony Walker’s killing in a racially-motivated murder.
Brennan is a patron of a foundation set up in the Huyton teenager’s memory, which has said it is ‘shocked and stunned’ by the revelations.
Mayor Anderson said: “Racist language and behaviour is inexcusable and unforgivable in all its forms.
“The video is completely at odds with my values, the values of Liverpool City Council, and all who live and work across the city.
“On behalf of the people of Liverpool I apologise for the offence and hurt caused.”
Brennan, who represents the Old Swan ward, has now been referred to the Labour party’s national and regional bodies for investigation.
He said: “It was a very stupid thing to do, but honestly it was not meant to cause harm.
“I have reflected on it and can again honestly say I am appalled that I could have done so and that it has caused harm and will upset many people.
“The black community I have clearly offended will have lost confidence in me for making such a calamitous mistake, I clearly cannot represent our wonderfully diverse community if people are angry and upset with me.
“I apologise for this serious misjudgement and it is something that has scarred me and will live with me always, please find it in your heart to forgive this huge mistake.”