A sergeant has been reduced in rank to constable after a Greater Manchester Police inquiry into "wholly inappropriate language which had both racist and sexist overtones."

A disciplinary panel found him guilty of failing to meet standards of politeness and tolerance demanded of all officers and staff in the force. The officer has also been moved from the area where he worked.

Assistant Chief Constable Justine Curran, who has responsibility for territorial policing and also chaired the disciplinary panel, said: "This officer used wholly inappropriate language which had both racist and sexist overtones.

"He failed to live up to the high standards we demand of everyone serving in the force.

"He has been given a significant sanction and moved from the area he was previously policing. He now has the opportunity to address his actions and prove to the community and his colleagues by his future conduct that he is worthy to be an officer within Greater Manchester Police.

"He will have to work hard to rebuild both his reputation and make a contribution to the community.

"I would also like to thank the Independent Police Complaints Commission for managing the investigation into the officer's actions."