Tower of London Beefeater sacked for ‘sending racist joke to group of colleagues on WhatsApp’

A TOWER of London Beefeater has been sacked for sending a “racist joke” to colleagues in a WhatsApp chat.

Veteran Yeoman Warder Simon Dodd has made numerous television appearances in his role, which he has held for 22 years.

2

2

But he was fired after multiple complaints about an offensive gag.

Mr Dodd, 62, is said to have a keen sense of humor and regularly sends jokes to his friends.

However, a staffer said: “Unfortunately, Simon once caused offense by broadcasting a joke with racist undertones.”

A black beefeater was said to be among the recipients of the message and the source said: “There have been a number of complaints.

“There is a zero tolerance approach to racism at the Tower and Simon was fired almost immediately.”

Mr Dodd, who starred in television documentary series The Tower in 2004, is set to appeal.

He has been allowed to remain in his mercy quarters in the Tower until alternative accommodation is found.

Our source added: “Simon is non-racist and is well liked by the fellow Beefeaters.

“He paid a heavy price for a momentary miscalculation, but racism of any kind is not tolerated there.”

Mr Dodd’s sacking last month means he will not be able to attend King Charles’ coronation in May.

All Yeomen Warders – male and female – must have served at least 22 years in the armed forces and be a lawful officer with the Medal of Long Service and Good Conduct.

Mr Dodd became a Beefeater in 2001 after 25 years with the Grenadier Guards, 1st Battalion.

Historic Royal Palaces, which operates the Tower, said it does not comment on individual cases, adding: “We take any allegations of racism or discrimination extremely seriously.”

Mr Dodd declined to comment on the matter.