Liverpool Hope Uni condemns racist DM allegedly sent by one of its students

Liverpool Hope University has condemned a racist Twitter DM sent to Wigan Athletic footballer Nathan Byrne, allegedly by one of its students.

After his side's last-minute draw on Saturday, the Wigan Athletic player tweeted exposing a racist direct message sent to him by an opposition fan – someone who allegedly attends Liverpool Hope University.

The message in question said: "You filthy black b******. I hope you and your family die you slave c***."

Liverpool Hope University issued a statement over Twitter, saying: "Liverpool Hope University has been made aware of a racist tweet allegedly sent by one of its students.

"We are investigating this urgently but wish to emphasise that we completely condemn all forms of racism and the matter will be dealt with appropriately.

"Racism has no place in society and no place in our University.

"At Liverpool Hope we are proud to be a diverse institution which welcomes and respects everyone."

Lancashire Police did arrest the man in question, but he has since been released pending a charging decision.

A spokesperson for Lancashire Police said: "Following an incident where a racially offensive message was sent to a Wigan Athletic footballer on Twitter, a 20-year-old man from Sheffield contacted the police and then handed himself into Blackpool Police Station on Saturday evening (April 6th).

"He was subsequently arrested on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence and malicious communications.

"It is believed that the message was sent by someone whilst they were in Lancashire.

"The man has since been released under investigation pending a charging decision by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).

"We have kept the victim and the football club updated on this development. Once we are able to update you on the CPS’ decision, we will."