The formation of a Sussex Black Police Officers Association has caused deep divisions within the force.

It has been started to provide fair treatment for black officers and win the respect of racial minorities.

But some officers, including one black policeman, believe the association will cause divisions and unnecessary resentment.

They are wrong. Only last week, police had to take action after a racist remark was posted on the force's intranet.

It wasn't the worst example of racism but it was still patronising and demeaning.

This message was the latest indication that there is still institutional racism lingering in the Sussex force as in many others.

There have been huge improvements during recent years. Great strides have been made to root out racism from the police and build real liaisons with the growing ethnic communities in the county.

But it is still rare to see black officers in the police when the force should ideally reflect the make up of a society.

Sadly, a black police officers' association is still necessary and it should be respected by all members of the force.

When racism is eradicated totally from the force, it can be disbanded.