A RADIO host has been accused of “weaponising child abuse” and spreading “anti-Irish” racism after a rant on social media.

In a now deleted tweet, Talk Radio host Mike Graham claimed to thousands of followers that Celtic was “the paedo’s football club”.

That came after being questioned by Twitter user John O’Connell, who asked why Mr Graham had not criticised the Government over a lack of quarantine for people returning to the UK during the coronavirus pandemic.

The host repeatedly called Mr O’Connell “Paddy”, sparking claims of anti-Irish racism.

After being called out for the “unacceptable” actions by Twitter user @TheEssexHoops, the host replied: “Celtic. The paedo’s football club”.

On Monday, the Parkhead club confirmed they had taken legal advice following what they called “pathetic” comments.

Now, a group “campaigning against anti-Catholic bigotry and anti-Irish racism in Scotland” have issued a scathing statement against Mr Graham.

Glasgow Times:

READ MORE: Celtic takes legal advice as Talk Radio host Mike Graham calls Hoops 'the paedo's club'

A spokeswoman for Call It Out said: “Mr Graham has not only weaponised child sex abuse in pursuit of a petty social media dispute, but he has distributed a racist trope in which, on the basis of his victim’s perceived nationality he has abused his intelligence in a public forum.

“His display of anti-Irish racism is potentially a criminal offence - it is most definitely an example of the kind of racist, hate-filled discourse which makes minority communities feel unsafe and silences them in the public space.

“He, and his employers, should reflect on that.”

Mr Graham, a previous editor of the Scottish Daily Mirror and assistant editor of the Daily Express, now hosts the 10am-1pm Talk Radio slot after replacing Julia Hartley-Brewer in January 2018.

In February, Celtic issued an apology to the victims of historic sex abuse within the club and the Celtic Boy’s Club.

Four men associated with Celtic or the boys’ club – James McCafferty, Frank Cairney, Jim Torbett and Gerald King – have been convicted of historical child sex abuse.

A spokesman for Celtic Football Club yesterday said: “We have been made aware of these pathetic comments and have taken legal advice.

“We understand the tweet has now been removed. We do not believe this matter or the individual concerned is worthy of any further comment.”

Talk Radio and Mike Graham have been contacted for comment.