SWASTIKA symbols on Essex County Council's HQ have been branded offensive.

A member of the public put in a Freedom of Information to the council about the symbols, which are carved into Chelmsford's County Hall.

They said: “It's potentially offensive and upsetting to those that lost loved ones in the war or those that fought for their country.”

It is believed the Grade II listed building was built between 1929 and 1938 - around the same time as the Nazi party was coming to power.

But the symbol has also been used by ancient civilisations to mean "good" or "auspicious".

The county council has declined to comment until after the Freedom of Information request has been dealt with.