The Lord Mayor of Liverpool has stood down from his position after circulating a racist video on a messaging service.

Peter Brennan, who was only elected to the position in May, made the decision to stand aside after speaking with elected Mayor Joe Anderson.

Mr Anderson said in a statement: "This morning, I was shocked and appalled to see a racist video circulated by our Lord Mayor Councillor Peter Brennan.

"Racist language and behaviour is inexcusable and unforgivable in all its forms. The hurt that this will have caused to people across the city, including members of my own family is unacceptable from someone who we have given the honour to act as our first citizen.

"I have spoken to Councillor Brennan this morning and after that conversation he has agreed to stand down immediately from the office of Lord Mayor."

Mr Brennan has also been referred to the Labour Party regionally and nationally over the matter.

The incident occurred on the 14th anniversary of the murder of black Merseyside teenager Anthony Walker.

Mr Brennan is a patron of the Anthony Walker Foundation charity.