Racism 'brushed under the carpet' says former British soldier who proudly served his country

Tap to watch video report by Antoine Allen

A former soldier has revealed how racism was frequently "brushed under the carpet" in the British Army and how he was often subjected to the n-word.

Joseph Higgins spent more than six years proudly serving his country in the Royal Artillery Regiment, including on the frontline in Afghanistan.

He said the abuse began soon after he joined his regiment and he quickly realised there was "racism all over the British Army."

When Joseph tried to report the abuse he said was was ignored by his commanding officers.

There were examples of systemic racism including a Caribbean officer who was accused of smoking drugs. Officers responded by testing every black soldier and only one white soldier.

• BAME staff account for 8% of the total Armed Forces

• They account for 12% of complaints

• 33% of which were for bullying, harassment and discrimination

Joseph has never spoken publicly before about his time in the Army but the recent Black Lives Matter protests made him want to tell his story.

He broke down as he told his wife and said he wouldn't want his children to follow in his footsteps.

He said his medals and beret reminded him how much he loves the UK and how much he has done for the country.

Joseph added he did have good experiences and made some friends but the racism he endured left him with emotional trauma.

The Ministry of Defence said racism has no place in the military and anyone found to behave in such a way can expect to be disciplined.