A petition calling on a senior Labour councillor to resign over "religious hatred" remarks has gathered almost 800 signatures. 

The Labour party confirmed last week it was investigating the conduct of Wood Street ward councillor Peter Barnett after he swore at a fellow councillor in a late-night online Facebook exchange.

Forest ward councillor Shabana Qadir had posted a picture with a message from the Prophet on January 20, in which Mr Barnett replied: "what the f*** does that mean?"

Ms Dhedhi replied by stating she did not expect everyone to understand, but to show respect.

He then added: "Shame the Prophet can’t speak clearly still he’s always got you to explain..(sic)"

Seeking Justice, the group responsible for the petition which has 791 signatures, said his remarks have "deeply insulted" Muslims and his actions have constituted a "hate crime". 

The petition reads: "We want Labour councillor Peter Barnett to resign. 

"He has deeply offended and insulted those who follow the Islamic faith without reason, he has abused the respect the 'right to freedom of religion' and he has clearly breached the council’s Code of Conduct by committing a hate crime."

It was sparked following a post by Adam Thompson who said Mr Barnett had breached the Racial and Religious Hatred Act by using "threatening words" with the intention of stirring up "religious hatred."

The campaign group warns that if the whip is not "immediately withdrawn" and Mr Barnett expelled,  there will "mass protest". 

Only 209 signatures are required to meet the 1,000 mark where it will then be handed to the council leader cllr Chris Robbins, chief whip councillor Paul Douglas, director of governance Daniel Fenwick and MP Stella Creasy.