'Bigot' tweet posted after Prince Philip death is condemned

On Friday, the Royal Family announced the Duke of Edinburgh had passed away at Windsor Castle, at the age of 99.

Shortly after the announcement, West Berkshire Branch of Unison tweeted: “Quick grammatical tip, apropos of nothing – correct usage is ‘one fewer bigot’ and not ‘one less bigot’.”

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James Gore, who runs the account, refused to delete the tweet or apologise, despite criticism from Unison colleagues and West Berkshire Council.

A Unison spokesman said: “These comments do not represent the views of the union.

“Our sympathies are with the Queen and her family at this difficult time.”

Nick Carter, the council’s chief executive, said he was “shocked” by the tweet.

“I personally found the comments offensive, upsetting and wholly inappropriate,” he said.

The Duke of Edinburgh died at Windsor Castle, at the age of 99

“I am aware that Unison, both regionally and nationally, have acted quickly to distance themselves from the branch’s views. We are doing likewise.

“More specifically, I have written to Christina McAnea, the General Secretary of Unison, expressing our alarm and concern at what has been written particularly since some seem to be attributing these statements to the council and its staff.

“The letter highlights this posting and formally registers a complaint on behalf of the council regarding the conduct of the West Berkshire Branch.

“I have also requested an urgent meeting with Unison officials at a national level.”

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Tributes have been pouring in since the death of Prince Philip, who was married to the Queen for more than 70 years, was announced.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson praised his “extraordinary life and work” and Labour leader Keir Starmer said he would be “remembered most of all for his extraordinary commitment and devotion to the Queen”.