An Isle of Wight councillor has been reported to the police after allegedly bullying a female colleague, calling another councillor a “fascist pig,” and accusing the council chairman of being racist.

Reform UK councillor, Caroline Gladwin, has formally reported Independent Socialist councillor, Geoff Brodie, following what she describes as “sustained and unprovoked attacks” during two council meetings on 30 September and 1 October. She is now calling for Cllr Brodie to resign with immediate effect.

Cllr Gladwin says she was reduced to tears and forced to leave the chamber on both occasions, due to Cllr Brodie’s attacks on her, which she described as aggressive, bullying and intended to provoke distress. She claims similar complaints have been made over the years, particularly by female councillors, but weak sanctions have allowed the conduct to continue unchecked. “The council cannot move forward while this toxic culture persists,” she added. “There must be real consequences for abusive behaviour. I urge Cllr Brodie to step down and call on others to support this demand for a more civilised and respectful council environment.”

During the Planning meeting, Cllr Brodie accused Cllr Gladwin of wrongdoing over her declaration of interests, despite the monitoring officer confirming no breach had occurred.

At the Full Council meeting the following day, Cllr Brodie launched further verbal attacks on Cllr Gladwin, called Reform UK “racist” and Cllr Dave Adams a “fascist pig.” When the Chairman, Ian Dore, attempted to intervene, Cllr Brodie labelled him a racist, leading to another suspension.

Cllr Dore said: “The Chair’s role is to ensure debate is respectful and upholds moral standards. The matter was addressed, and business resumed.”

Council leader, Phil Jordan, said: “There is no place in local councils for abuse and bad behaviour. I hope we can move forward and focus on solving the Island’s problems.”

No official comment has been issued by the Isle of Wight Council, but the IW Observer understands official complaints have also been made to the monitoring officer.

Cllr Brodie is away until later in the month.