A Mansfield councillor caused a storm online after sharing a picture on his Facebook page which some people branded Islamophobic.
UKIP member Sid Walker has come under fire after the image appeared on his timeline, showing a picture of a toy spider wearing a turban with the caption “Jihaddy long-legs”.
Many people were shocked that councillor Walker had posted the picture, however others said those who complained were overreacting.
One user commented saying, “Uh oh..not exactly the most appropriate thing for a local Mansfield UKIP councillor to be posting on Facebook is it?”
And another person posted: “This was obviously a joke (something you laugh at when you have a sense of humour) EVERY joke is at someone’s expense, GROW UP!!”
Cllr Walker represents the Newlands ward on the council, winning his seat in the May elections.
In the picture, the spider appears to be wearing a Sikh-style turban, as opposed to a type of headdress associated with jihadi terrorists.
Cllr Walker could not be reached for comment, but in earlier posts online had defended the image and apologised for any offence it had caused.
There was never any racist intent
“There was not and never intended to be any racist or political intent” he wrote.
“As for the Sikh inference, I put them on the same level as the Ghurkas and there is no higher level as both people have always backed Britain and have my highest respect.”
Notts TV News has also contacted UKIP for a response.
