A learning support worker from Street has come under fire for her "vile racist" comments at an illegal immigration rally in Somerset.

Tens of thousands of people have watched a video on social media of Brenda Heal telling protestors they "have to stand and fight" against illegal immigration.

Ms Heal - who works at Crispin School in Street - was recorded during a protest in Taunton on Saturday (July 25).

In front of a flag emblazoned with 'Somerset Patriots', she said: "I work in a school, 1,100 kids.

"Up until 18 months ago we only had between three and four in every 1,000 kids (who were) Black or Asian children.

"We have now, anywhere between 75 and 80 of them.

"In 18 months.

"That's in a small town called Street - which most of you will know. So it's on its way. We have to stand and fight against it."

Ahead of another planned protest in August, Ms Heal told the crowd to bring more people with them next time to "get bigger and bigger".

The video - shared by Plymouth UK Anti-Fascists - has attracted hundreds of comments condemning her words.

The group said: "God forbid a child of colour wants an education, we might as well open up the plantations."

It condemned her "vile racist" words and called on residents to report "this wicked witch" to the school.

Wessex Learning Trust, which runs Crispin School, said in a statement: "We have been made aware of material circulating on social media.

"We would like to make clear that the views expressed do not represent the views of the Wessex Learning Trust or Crispin School.

"We are proud to serve a diverse and inclusive community, and we firmly believe that the diversity of our pupils, staff and wider community is one of the Trust's greatest strengths.

"We are committed to ensuring that every member of our community is treated with dignity, respect and fairness, regardless of their race, religion, ethnicity or background.

"We would like to thank those members of our community who have taken the time to bring this material to our attention. While matters relating to individual members of staff are confidential, we will ensure that our own appropriate internal processes are followed and, where appropriate, we will seek guidance from relevant authorities."

Saturday's protest saw a heavy police presence in Taunton, with protestors reported to be outnumbered by counter-protestors.