Worthing councillor suspended over old Tweets
Councillor Russ Cochran will work as an Independent councillor while the Tweets are investigated
A Worthing Borough Councillor has been suspended by the Conservatives after old Tweets resurfaced.
It's alleged the Tweets, sent by Councillor Russ Cochran between 2012 and 2015, featured the words gay and queer as derogatory terms, as well as an offensive word for travellers.
In a statement, Councillor Cochran said: “I have been made aware that a number of tweets that I sent between 2012 and 2015 have been identified as potentially containing offensive language. I can confirm that these tweets were sent between myself and close friends. I acknowledge that some 6 or 9 years later a third party reviewing these tweets, in isolation and not in context, may view them as unacceptable.
"I recognise that my suspension by the Conservative party is a proportionate response and I welcome the thorough investigation that will follow. During this time, I will continue to represent my constituents in Northbrook ward as an Independent Councillor, ensuring that their views are heard and they are well supported.”