'The corrosive effect of such racist gross misconduct upon public confidence in policing cannot be understated. Gerry Sydenham, who chaired the hearing, added: 'The messages exchanged by former PC Mills and former DC Kirby contained appalling racist comments which were egregious in nature and content. 'Where behaviour of this nature is uncovered, we will take robust action.'

'While I fully acknowledge the damage such cases have on public confidence in the police service both here in North Yorkshire and across the country, I want to make it clear that the police are overwhelmingly a force for good. 'The evidence in this case was damning, and it is only right that the panel upheld the gross misconduct and the officers have been dismissed from North Yorkshire Police. 'It has no place in society, let alone from people who have sworn an oath to uphold the highest standards of fairness, integrity and respect to all people. Detective Con Danielle Kirby and PC James Mills have been sacked from North Yorkshire Police (pictured) for exchanging vile racist messages

Messages go