LOVE Island contestant Danny Bibby has apologised after he used a racial slur on social media.

The 25-year-old plumber and clothing brand owner, from Leigh, reportedly used the n-word in a post on Instagram in 2019 that has since been deleted.

His statement came after his father Richard defended him earlier on Friday, saying there were “no racist intentions to this post” and that it had been a “mistake” on his son’s part.

A statement from Danny, issued via ITV, said: “I’d like to take the time to apologise to anyone that may have taken offence to my inappropriate remark.

“I never meant anything malicious by this comment at all. I am not a racist person and it’s unacceptable language and ignorant.

“I meant no offence and feel like I have really learnt from my mistakes and will never use that word again.

“I am a kind loving person and hopefully you get to see that in the show.”

Ahead of the return of the series, ITV published duty of care protocols for contestants, who will be offered a minimum of eight therapy sessions on their return home and will receive training on the impact of social media and “how to handle potential negativity”, as well as training on financial management.

Leigh Journal:

Danny Bibby, pictured on Instagram, is a plumber and clothing brand owner

Among the processes detailed for all contributors on Love Island are “comprehensive psychological support”, “detailed conversations on the impact of participation on the show” and a “proactive aftercare package”, ITV said.

Another recoupling looms over the Love Island villa following the arrival of Danny and AJ Bunker.

The pair, who both arrived this week, will get the first pick of who they want to couple up with during the next episode of the ITV 2 dating show.

AJ and Danny will go first before the men take turns to pick who they want to couple up with.

In Friday’s programme, Danny went on dates with Kaz Kamwi and Sharon Gaffka.

During his date with Kaz, Danny said: “I’m just starting my own clothing brand. I’m a very ambitious guy, and you seem the same way.”

He added: “I’ve recently bought my first house, so I live with my cat. Me and my cat.”

Kaz replied: “Someone driven and someone who makes an effort.”

Following his date with Sharon, he said he was “pleasantly surprised” with how things went.

However he spent his first day getting to know the other women in the villa.

Friday’s episode also saw recent arrival AJ Bunker let Liam Reardon she is interested in him.

“In terms of sexual attraction, you’re definitely my type,” she said.

Liam replied: “I appreciate that.”

However later in the episode Liam let Millie Court, who he is coupled up with, know she remains his primary focus in the villa.

Love Island continues on ITV2 and the ITV Hub.