A village street called ‘Darkey Lane’ may have to be renamed following complaints of racism.
The narrow lane in Lifton, Devon, was given the name over a century ago because it is shaded by trees.
But following recent complaints from visitors it is facing a controversial name change.
Lifton Parish Council leaders have written to local residents as part of a consultation process over the name.
If two thirds of them agree to the name change, ‘Darkey Lane’ will vanish from maps.
It got its name because it is a sunken lane lined with large trees that cast a permanent shadow.
But two visitors - one of Caribbean heritage - said they were “shocked and extremely upset” by the name on a recent visit.
They complained to council bosses, who launched the consultation process over a possible name change.
In a letter to locals they wrote: “Darkey Lane was a historic, locally-based road name given before development in the local area.
“The road had originally been a sunken and tree-lined dark lane.
“Over the years and with the use of local Devonshire dialect, it became known as Darkey Lane.
“I have been asked to write to you following receipt of a complaint about Darkey Lane made by two visitors to the village.
“The visitors, one of who is of Caribbean heritage, were shocked and extremely upset having been confronted with a name like this.”
If residents vote in favour of ditching ‘Darkey Lane’, they will have to pay a £40 fee towards news road signs.
Most local residents hit out at the proposals on social media after receiving the council letter.
Peter Bailey posted “Get a life snowflakes!” and Pauline Elizabeth added: “Boo hoo what idiots.”
Wendy Denny added: ''The country is becoming worse.
“Get a grip. People are offended by anything. I’m short in height, I’m not offended or upset if someone mocks my height.”
But another local, Denise Trenaman, said it was time for the street to be given a new name.
She posted: “Everyone here pretending that they don’t know that ‘darkey’ is a horrible, nasty word for a person of colour.’”
The ultimate decision on whether Darkey Lane is stripped of its name will lie with West Devon Borough Council.
