A police investigation into an allegedly offensive podcast co-hosted by a prospective Labour councillor has found that it contained no illegal material.

Police launched an inquiry after receiving a complaint about the Goonersphere Podcast co-hosted by Daniel Cowan, who had been selected by Labour to stand in May’s local elections for Blenheim Park ward in Leigh.

The podcast, which Mr Cowan admitted could be viewed as offensive, was publicly available until February and allegedly contained racial, homophobic and misogynist material.

A compilation video of the most offensive content was published on Vimeo and branded “potty-mouthed sexism, racism and bestiality”. In one item a host announces a welcome to “our token brown friend”.

The site, which also contained references to sexual activity with the elderly, was reported to police by Southend Conservative Council leader John Lamb, who described it as vile and obscene.

A police spokeswoman said: “On Monday, we were made aware of a blog via a third party, who outlined concerns that it contained offensive material.

“We have reviewed the online content, and have found that no offences have been committed.”

The spokeswoman added: “Although some may have concerns over the tone of the content, and the language used, no criminal offences have been identified.

“We encourage anyone with concerns over online content where they believe criminal offences may have been committed to contact us via 101.

“All reports are taken seriously and when assessing whether offences have taken place, all forces comply with the national crime recording standard.”

Mr Cowan said: “This was a real waste of by the local Conservative Party. We’ve already seen swingeing cuts to police and they had to waste time on something they knew wouldn’t go any further.”

Labour group leader Ian Gilbert said: “We will be considering the information and whether it is appropriate for Daniel to be candidate but until that process is complete I am unable to comment further.”