A police officer has been dismissed after he behaved in an "inappropriate" manner towards another officer - which included sexual touching.

PC Richard Wightman, previously based at Maidenhead, was dismissed without notice after a two-day public misconduct hearing.

His behaviour, which took place on July 8 last year, caused the other officer to feel “uncomfortable and disturbed”.

The behaviour included inappropriate language and physical contact of a sexual nature. The female officer was also said to have felt shocked and upset by the incident.

PC Wightman faced allegations in that he breached the standards of professional behaviour in relation to discreditable conduct, and authority respect and courtesy.

PC Wightman’s behaviour was found to have amounted to gross misconduct.

Detective Chief Superintendent Colin Paine, head of professional standards, said: “For the public to have confidence in the police it is vital that officers uphold the professional standards expected of them, particularly when it comes to showing respect to colleagues.

“I give credit to the officer who challenged and reported his behaviour for her courage and integrity; it is never easy to speak up, but it is always right to do so.

“There is no place in Thames Valley Police for someone who behaves in this manner.

“As such the officer was dismissed and his name will be placed on the College of Policing’s barred list which will prevent him seeking employment in another police force.

“I hope that the public will take heart in the fact that Thames Valley Police is prepared to robustly and openly address behaviour that falls short of the high standards expected.”