Three police officers have been sacked for ''deeply offensive'' sexism and homophobia, following a disciplinary hearing.

Det Sgt Mark Hall, Det Con Andy Holt, and Pc Colin Campbell were dismissed by Hampshire Constabulary after it received complaints from colleagues of ''bullying and inappropriate behaviour''.

The officers, all based at Havant, were referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) and dismissed for gross misconduct with immediate effect following a formal hearing on Wednesday (April 30).

Chief Constable Andy Marsh said: ''The detail of these allegations was extremely serious in nature. The subsequent investigation uncovered evidence of grossly inappropriate and offensive behaviour centred on homophobic and sexist comments about colleagues within the force.

''I find the behaviour that we uncovered detestable. It is not something that I will tolerate within Hampshire Constabulary.''

An IPCC spokeswoman confirmed that the issue was referred to it in November last year and it agreed to supervise the force's investigation.

IPCC Commissioner Jennifer Izekor said: ''The language and behaviours of these officers displayed deeply offensive homophobic and sexist attitudes towards others. Their casual and repeated use of demeaning language demonstrated a complete lack of respect for their colleagues and the force can only be stronger without them.

''They have no place in policing and their behaviour fell well below the standards expected by the people of Hampshire. I am satisfied that this case was treated with the seriousness it deserves by Hampshire Police and want to commend the force on the thorough and robust nature of their investigation once these allegations emerged.

''I endorse the action they have taken in dismissing these officers.''