POLICE are investigating after reports of homophobic graffiti being drawn on a locker at a Southampton fire station.

Officers are probing the incident at Redbridge Fire Station after a firefighter reported having their locker broken into and homophobic language written inside.

The targeted firefighter, who the Daily Echo has chosen not to name, Tweeted about the upsetting incident, saying: “It’s come to my attention (in the worst way) that a sick cowardly individual doesn’t like gay people in the job.

"My response is simple: It is not homosexuals that don’t have a place in the fire service, It is homophobics [sic] that don’t belong here!”

The following day they added that they they “shed a few tears” following the abuse, and “went home feeling very lonely”.

The force said they were made aware of the incident on November 28.

Following the incident, the firefighter received an outpouring of support on social media.

Speaking on the incident, chief fire officer of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, Neil Odin, said: “The fire and rescue service is a family and we stand shoulder to shoulder with our colleagues. Abuse of any kind will never be tolerated.

“We are aware of an allegation and are urgently investigating. The police have been informed and it would therefore be inappropriate for us to comment on any specific details.”

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) says it is aware of the incident and is supporting the firefighter.

Mark Chapman, FBU regional secretary for the Southern region said: “Homophobia has no place in the workplace, or indeed in any part of society. The FBU opposes discrimination in every form and is committed to standing in solidarity with the LGBT community. We are looking into what has happened here and are offering the necessary support.

“The FBU’s LGBT section is in the process of supporting the affected member and is working with the FBU’s Southern region on this issue.”

A Hampshire Constabulary spokesperson said: “We are investigating a report of homophobic graffiti on a locker at Redbridge Fire Station, which was reported to us on Sunday, November 28.

“Enquiries into the incident are ongoing and we are liaising with Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service as part of this.”