A VOLUNTEER was kicked off a training course for using racially-sensitive language.

Sandra Plitt, 59, of Alport Avenue, Colchester, has apologised for using the terms “coloured boy” and “built-in suntan” when referring to black men.

Mrs Plitt apologised for making the comments and causing offence while training to be a volunteer on a youth offender panel.

She critcised Essex County Council’s heavy-handed approach for what she claims was generational ignorance over the use of language and not intentional racism.

Mrs Plitt said: “All I wanted was to do something for the community. I have been unemployed since 2005 and I wanted to do more.

“It was fantastic when I found out I was on the course. I have been trying for ages.”

Mrs Plitt was told on January 3 she was going to be accepted as a member of the panel and would have to take part in training for the six Saturdays.

During the first day of the course to become a member of the community panel for Essex County Council’s youth offenders team she made the comments.

She was called by the council on Tuesday and told she cannot continue.

Mrs Plitt said: “I was not thinking. My black stepfather brought me up and I have a black brother. I have never been called a racist before and I am absolutely not racist.

“I am very sorry if I upset other people and, when they called me, it went right to my gut. I want to apologise, but I don’t feel like I should have been treated like this.

“In the Sixties when I was a teenager, you were told to say coloured and not black.”

Mrs Plitt received a letter from Karen Sinclair, a referral co-ordinator at County Hall, on Wednesday giving four reasons for her removal.

It referred to the use of “coloured boy” stating: “The language you used may be considered as offensive and racist, although I am sure this is not how you had meant this to come across.”

It then accused Mrs Plitt of looking at a black member of the group and saying: “I have a stepfather who has a built-in suntan.”

An Essex County Council spokesman said: “All staff from the Essex Youth Offending Service are required to engage with vulnerable young people, victims, and members of the community. They need to display open, friendly, non-judgmental communication skills and also show an appreciation of diversity and respect for all people at all times.

“It was felt one member displayed a communication style and attitude that would not be conducive to the work of the Essex Youth Offending Service and the decision was taken to end this person’s placement on the programme.”