Police probe after claims of racist abuse against Ukip MEP

The police have launched an investigation into claims a Ukip MEP was subjected to racial abuse on Twitter.

James Carver, who represents the West Midlands, said he was called a "pikey" - an abusive reference to his Romany gypsy heritage.

He said the insult was "as offensive as racist expletives that are used against other minorities".

He thanked West Mercia police for what he called a "prompt and professional" response to his complaint.

A West Mercia Police spokeswoman confirmed the force had received the complaint and said: "We are currently looking into it."