Police investigate ex-UKIP councillor who called gay people ‘poofs’ and ‘perverts’

Illustrated rainbow pride flag on a white background.

West Mercia Police has launched an investigation into the homophobic comments of former UKIP councillor Dave Small.

Mr Small was expelled from the party on Wednesday, just days after he was elected to Reditch Borough Council.

Ahead of last Friday’s election, Mr Small wrote on Facebook: “Why on earth is this useless Goverment [sic] pandering to Puffs?

“I refuse to call them gays, as what has gay to do with Perverts like Elton John and Clair Balding [sic] who get their jollies in such disgusting ways. to sum up, they should not allowed to be married, they should go back to the closet.”

In February, Mr Small referred to gay people as “perverts” and said that “poofs and dykes” should not be allowed to marry.

He also used defended using the racial slur “p**i”, and predicted the UK would be overwhelmed with “thousends mor scroungers” from Mali [sic].

West Mercia Police confirmed on Friday it had launched an investigation into Mr Small’s remarks following a complaint.

Superintendent Kevin Purcell said: “I can confirm an investigation is currently ongoing and we will be making no further comment at this stage.”

A spokesman for UKIP said Mr Small had been expelled for bringing the party into disrepute.