Racist images and videos circulating on social media this week have caused two universities to launch an investigation into the behaviour of a potential prospective student.
The string of offensive content from a sixth-former, reported to have applied to the University of Leeds and Nottingham, caused major outrage on Twitter.
A video appears to show the teen using ethnic slurs at a gathering and a picture, originally intended for Snapchat, shows him with his lips puckered and his face completely covered in a black substance.
The caption reads: "Finally decided to black up! If you can't beat them join them, right?", turning what could have been a picture of a teenager wearing a face mask into a racist and cruel imitation of blackface.
A screenshot was also shared of a racist comment written by the boy underneath an Instagram post by French footballer Paul Pogba in which he poses with a chimpanzee.
Both universities have since released separate statements acknowledging his racist behaviour after calls for them to withdraw their offers.
The University of Leeds tweeted: "We have been made aware of complaints about the behaviour of an individual who it is suggested has links to the University. We are investigating the matter further.
"Racism in any form is unacceptable and is not welcomed at our University."
The University of Nottingham said they were looking into the allegations and will take "appropriate action".
A spokesperson said: "We're aware of a complaint about the behaviour of a prospective student, we're looking into it and will take any appropriate action."
