A university has banned Mexican-style sombreros from fancy dress parties - because they are 'racist'.
Students at the University of Sheffield have been told any costume that could be perceived as insulting will be challenged by security on nights out this Halloween .
The new guidelines state that some dress-up outfits are now outlawed - including any wide-brimmed 'Mexican' hats and colourful scarves.
Posters have been put up around the university to inform students of the change, according to news site The Tab.
One states: "My culture is not your costume" while another reads: "My disability, impairment, condition or illness is not your costume."
The students' union's women's officer Rosa Tully said: "We have produced these posters reminding you this Halloween to consider whether your costume mocks or demeans another person's race, culture or disability."
However the move has seen an immediate backlash from students, who reacted with a mixture of fury and amusement.
Alex Garcia wrote on Facebook : "As a Mexican I can legit say f*** this s***."
Memo Maldonado agreed, saying: "Same. We actually love seeing ppl with em [sombreros]."
Another student said: "Will leprechaun hats [be banned] on St Patrick's day?"
The announcement follows advice issued by the National Union of Students (NUS), challenging insulting costumes.
The NUS said: "This Halloween we want everyone to check and double-check their costume to avoid the exploitation and degradation of others.
"Don't let Racism, Sexism, Homophobia, Transphobia and Ableism be the real Horror this Halloween."
Just last week a fancy dress store in the centre of Sheffield, South Yorkshire came under fire after it was found to be selling a Nazi 'Gestapo Officer' costume.
In response, the Holocaust Educational Trust said: "I cannot see any scenario where 'dressing up' as a Nazi is an appropriate choice for fancy dress.
"I sincerely hope the shop reconsiders and removes such an offensive item."
