A senior Tory on Medway Council who is said to have cracked an Irish joke during a break in the middle of a racial discrimination hearing faces a hearing of his own before a watchdog panel.

Cllr Ken Bamber, 77, is alleged to have told the gag when chairing a union appeal against the dismissal of an employee last December.

The case was brought against him by Irish-born Unison officer, Brian Kelly. Mr Kelly objected to use of the word "Paddy", which he said was racist in intent.

Cllr Bamber is expected to appear before the council's Standards Board on June 19.

If the allegations are proved, Cllr Bamber could be suspended as a councillor.

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