An SNP councillor has been told to ‘f*** off’ during an online row over sexism at a ‘BBC bias’ protest.

Rhiannon Spear was also branded as pompous, purse-lipped and self-righteous by Peter Bell, who will be speaking at the rally, organised by pro-independence campaigners, on August 11.

Self-proclaimed feminist Ms Spear questioned why the three speakers at the protest are all white men.

She also raised concerns about the conduct of some protesters after she was abused at a similar rally four years ago.

She said: “Just a friendly reminder that many people who work at Pacific Quay (not all direct employees of the BBC) are pro-indy.

“In 2014, I was shouted at aggressively while I got my lunch and called a traitor by a man in a mask.”

She then asked Mr Bell: “Will you be trying to diversify at all?”

But Mr Bell said: “I suppose I could shave my legs and wear a skirt.”

Ms Spear then asked what good that would do before Mr Bell added: “Congratulations on the success of your humourectomy.

“My role in this event is as a guest speaker. I am aware that the organisers are looking for more speakers. Personally, I’m more concerned with what people have to say than with what they’ve got between their legs.”

Ms Spear responded to that by insisting female representation is important. She said: “What people have to say will be based on their world view and experiences.

“If you don’t think that’s the case you probably shouldn’t be a ‘guest speaker’ or a voice for any movement that’s not just white men.”

At that point Mr Bell said: “That is a very sexist comment. Perhaps you’d like to f*** off now.”

He was accused of conducting himself in a bizarre way following that comment.

But he told Ms Spear: “You are the one attacking me for absolutely no reason other than that I happen to be male.

“I’m the one muting you as I do with all pompous, purse-lipped, self-righteous tut-tutters.”

Greater Pollock councillor Ms Spear then added: “I’m sorry you feel that way. You sensitive soul.”

The event, set to take place between 1pm and 3pm on August 11, is being organised by campaigner Bill Glen.

An online notice of the event said it was a “peaceful protest against the BBC and the fake misrepresentation on Scotland” and that it was “time to put an end to the biased news in favour of Westminster”.

As well as Mr Bell, speakers Alan Knight and David McGuinness are also being lined up.