A SECURITY firm has come under fire after posting a vacancy for a cleaner at a North Yorkshire magistrates’ court – looking for a preferred candidate that speaks both English and Polish.

G4S has advertised the cleaning supervisor role at Harrogate Magistrates Court, calling for candidates who are bilingual so they can communicate with other members of Polish staff.

North Yorkshire County Councillor David Simister said he had been approached by residents who said they wanted to apply for the position but because they only spoke English felt they would be at a disadvantage.

Cllr Simister, also Ukip Parliamentary candidate for Harrogate and Knaresborough, said other staff members should have an understanding of English so the language barrier would not be an issue.

He said: “I worry that this is a widespread problem across the country.

“There is the argument that often the jobs are filled by foreign workers because British people don’t want to do the jobs but I know in this instance it is not the case.

“I think this advert should be taken down and all future job vacancies be reviewed.”

Legal experts say using the word "preferred" does not fall foul of employment laws because it does not prevent non-Polish speakers from applying.

A spokesman for G4S said although the advert called for candidates who can speak both English and Polish, it was there as preferred criteria rather than a necessity.

He said: “English GCSE is required for this role, other languages are desirable but not essential.”

“As with any role, we are looking for the best people with a variety of skill sets.

“Should any candidate feel that they are suitable for a role, we would encourage them to apply.”

A Harrogate resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "It is just so depressing.

“I'm trying hard to better myself and this is a step-up from my current position but because I don't speak Polish in Harrogate I haven't got a chance."

"My heart just sank when I saw the preferred candidate should be able to speak Polish. It just isn't fair that in our own country British people are being excluded from jobs."

A fellow cleaner added: "This is what those of us trying to work at the low end of the pay scales are constantly battling against.”