Bradford Council has been accused of racism over the sacking of a leading officer for alleged gross misconduct.

And community groups throughout Bradford West are demanding an independent inquiry into the council's decision to fire Mohammed Masood from his position as co-ordinator of the local area panel.

Bradford West MP Marsh Singh will be backing their call by writing to council chief executive Richard Penn asking for an investigation.

Supporters of Mr Masood - sacked following a personal harassment complaint from one of his staff - packed into a meeting on Saturday called by an action group seeking to reinstate him.

Khadim Hussain, chairman of the Victor Street Mosque, praised Mr Masood's work in the Bradford West community.

He said: "If he does leave it will be a sad thing for a brilliant person who works day and night for the community's welfare. All witnesses against Mr Masood were white staff of the authority - all investigators and the disciplinary panel consisted of white officers.

"All the witnesses against Mr Masood were believed, and all those corroborating his statement were disbelieved," Mr Hussain added.

Deputy council leader Coun Mohammed Ajeeb refused to comment for legal reasons. Mr Masood had the right to appeal.

Several at the meeting alleged rumours had been circulating for months that Mr Masood would be out of a job soon. Chairman Altaf Hussain said "tougher action" as a community might be needed.

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