A Tynemouth councillor has been suspended by the Labour Party pending an investigation after allegedly sharing an image of himself holding what appears to be a firearm in a WhatsApp group. Tom Bailey is reportedly under scrutiny by North Tyneside’s ruling party following the post, which appeared in a volunteer group of around 1,500 members involved in cleaning plastic pellets off North East beaches.

The controversy centers on a photo accompanying a message attributed to Bailey in a WhatsApp group of volunteers responding to the recent nurdle spill caused by a shipping collision at the Port of Tyne on July 19. The image shows Bailey seemingly holding a gun, with other weapons, including firearms and an axe, visible in the background. The post also included text suggesting uncertainty about using certain placards ordered while drinking on holiday and a disclaimer that there was no intention to bring firearms onto the beach.

The post sparked a formal complaint and a police referral from Conservative councillor Lewis Bartoli, who said a concerned resident prompted the complaint. Bartoli emphasized that the issue is about the judgment and standards expected of elected officials rather than political disputes or Bailey’s environmental campaigning.

“This is not about political disagreement or his campaigning over the nurdle spill. It is about the judgment and standards expected of an elected representative,” Bartoli said. He added that given the depiction of weapons, police involvement was warranted, and he urged Bailey to reconsider his position as a councillor.

Northumbria Police confirmed awareness of the report but have not disclosed further details. Labour Party officials declined to comment on specific disciplinary actions. Bailey has not responded to requests for comment.

North Tyneside’s Labour Mayor Karen Clark confirmed a formal complaint had been submitted to the council and referred to the police, as well as to the national Labour Party for further consideration. She highlighted the expectation of high conduct standards among elected representatives and called for a reduction in political tensions.

“This is a matter that demands the utmost seriousness, and it would be inappropriate to comment further while investigations are ongoing,” Clark said.

This is the second Labour Party suspension in the area in recent days. Chirton and Percy Main councillor Rebecca O’Keefe was also suspended last week amid disputes related to her opposition to the closure of the High Borrans outdoor education centre.