A RESIDENTIAL nurse who claimed he was the victim of racial discrimination has won his battle for justice.

Mo Bhoobun has spoken of his relief after an industrial tribunal panel ruled he was unfairly dismissed and discriminated against because of the colour of his skin.

The ruling leaves Mr Bhoobun's former employers, Trees Park Village, facing a possible compensation claim.

Mr Bhoobun used to work as a matron and manager at Beech Lodge, for mentally disabled residents, at the Trees Park Village complex, in Middleton St George, near Darlington.

The 55-year-old, of Hartburn, Stockton, was dismissed last year following a disciplinary hearing into an incident involving a resident's complaint.

Earlier this year, an industrial tribunal was also told that he had a racist remark made about him by his manager, Joanne Thurston.

The tribunal panel has now released its decision, finding in favour of Mr Bhoobun in both instances.

Mr Bhoobun, who left Mauritius in 1967 to train as a nurse in the UK, said: "This is not an experience I would wish upon anyone.

"I am a professional nurse and found the accusations against me most hurtful. It is impossible to describe how it feels to be disliked by someone purely because of the colour of your skin.

"I only hope that the individuals who victimised me learn from this and learn that it is not acceptable to treat people in the way that they did."

Mr Bhoobun's solicitor, David Wilkinson, said they would be seeking compensation from Trees Park Village.

"Employers are responsible for the actions of their employees and failure to prevent such behaviour will result in claims being brought against them," said Mr Wilkinson, who works for Newcastle solicitors Short Richardson and Forth.

A spokesman for the company said they were awaiting details of any compensation they may be required to pay.

"Since this event the company has come under new ownership.

"The new company welcomes any recommendations made by the tribunal, and it does not condone any form of discrimination," he said