A row which erupted after an x-rated comment was posted on a politician’s website is rumbling on.

David Cameron, Boris Johnson and Margaret Thatcher were all targeted by the four-letter expletive on Liberal Democrat councillor Bob Smytherman’s website.

Tory rivals have revealed they are sending a letter round to every resident in the Tarring ward of Worthing Borough Council, where Coun Smytherman is seeking re-election.

The letter reads: “We ask residents in the name of common decency to dump him from the council on May 6, if he does not do the honourable thing in withdrawing his nomination.

“We respect those with different political views.

“We do not and never will accept the language of the gutter being used for political purposes.

“Had a Conservative stooped as low as Mr Smytherman they would have been deselected and party membership terminated.”

Following a complaint to South East Employers, an independent group which represents councils in the region, the image was withdrawn.

The Argus understands the incident was also reported to Sussex Police.

Coun Smytherman said: “I am disappointed but not surprised the Tories have launched this attack on me as this is the nature of the political arena especially at election time.

“All I can say is I apologise unreservedly for any offence caused by my website and the cartoons which appeared on it.

“I believe I have responded promptly to the initial complaint and removed the offending material.

“As always, I will continue to serve local residents to the best of my ability and give up a large amount of time to serve the community I love.”