Exeter University has launched an investigation after it was reported that a large swastika was carved into a door in the student halls.
In a statement, the university has said that it is "a friendly and supportive community and that Racism in any form is not tolerated."
The University's Director of Campus Services immediately launched an urgent investigation when the Swastika and a Rights for Whites sign were discovered.
Initial inquiries suggest it may have been carried out as an ill-judged, deeply-offensive joke parodying a sketch in a TV comedy show.
The investigation into the students' actions is being carried out under the University's disciplinary procedures.
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