A BURY council worker from Prestwich has been sacked after posting a vile message about the Hillsborough disaster.

Mark Lewis made the sick comment on Twitter after watching the team he supports, Manchester City, lose 3-2 at Liverpool in a crunch Premier League match on Sunday.

He tweeted a 28-word rant in reference to the stadium tragedy, in which 96 Liverpool fans died 25 years ago.

Outraged Twitter users shared the message and some pointed out he worked for the council as a gardener on a casual basis.

Dozens of people tweeted the message on to the council’s Twitter account, while some internet users made death threats.

Within 24 hours, town hall bosses sacked Mr Lewis for breaching the council’s written policy on social media usage, which states that people should not post anything offensive or that brings the council into disrepute.

A Bury Council spokesman said: “We absolutely deplore the comments made on Twitter by Mr Lewis and we fully understand, and share, people’s concerns.

“While Mr Lewis’s comments are in no way representative of the council, we deeply regret any distress that they have caused.”

He added: “We have investigated the matter and come to the view that Mr Lewis has breached the council’s social media policy and, as a result, we have taken decisive action and can confirm that Mr Lewis is no longer engaged as a casual worker by the council.

“The council’s thoughts and sympathies are with the families of the victims of the Hillsborough disaster and everyone affected by it.”

One of those who died in the tragedy, which unfolded during an FA Cup semi final match between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest at the Sheffield stadium, was 27-year-old Ramsbottom greengrocer Barry Glover.

One football fan upset by Mr Lewis’s comment was Brian O’Connor. who has made a formal complaint to Manchester City Football Club.

He wrote: “He made the vilest of comments regarding the 96 Liverpool fans who lost their lives at Hillsborough.

“This disgraceful post will obviously cause a great deal of pain and upset to those relatives who lost their loved ones at that game and the people of Liverpool in general.

“This man has brought shame on Manchester City Football club and I sincerely hope you will deal with this complaint in the proper manner.”

The club has not yet said if it will take action, such as banning Mr Lewis from matches.

Some internet users say they have also reported the matter to Greater Manchester Police.

Mr Lewis could not be reached for comment.