AN ex-council chairman has been suspended from Tendring Counci’s Conservative group for two months for posting an offensive Tweet.

Danny Mayzes Tweeted: “Now that’s how you deal with immigration issues lol” in relation to a video showing an electrified border fence manned by gunmen.

He was suspended from the Tendring Council’s Conservative Group - and the suspension has been extended until January 1.

Peter Halliday, leader, said: “It was proposed by me and agreed by the group.

“It was further agreed, with the agreement of Danny, he would refrain from using Twitter and Facebook for the same period.”

The group had delayed making a decision while police investigated the incident.

Police decided not to take any further action.

Mr Mayzes will still serve as a councillor during his group suspension, but the ban will prevent him from participating in Conservative group and committee work.

The suspension has been criticised as a slap on the wrists by Labour councillors.

Garry Calver, deputy leader of Tendring Council’s Labour group, said: “Councillor Mayzes should have resigned his seat immediately after his sickening posting on Twitter was exposed.

“When he did not there was a responsibility among the Tendring Conservatives to take a firm stance and show they will not tolerate such views by expelling him from their group.

“What does it say about the Tendring Tories if they are willing to welcome him back with open arms as soon as Christmas is over?

Mr Mayzes said the comment was a joke and has apologised.

He was not available for comment following his group suspension.