The University of Exeter has launched an urgent investigation after a swastika was carved into a campus door and a union flag sign with the words “Rights for Whites” was seen on the door of a student’s room.

The disturbing incidents came weeks after students were photographed wearing T-shirts with handwritten antisemitic and racist slogans during a sports club social event.

A university spokesperson said an investigation was under way and the graffiti had been removed.

They added: “It appears, from initial inquiries, that this may have been an ill-judged, deeply offensive joke on the students’ part, parodying a sketch in a TV comedy show.

“The university believes any form of racist or discriminatory behaviour is unacceptable and the actions of those involved are in contrast to the vast majority of students, who help to build our tolerant and inclusive university community.”

The Union of Jewish Students warned that an increase in antisemitic incidents at universities risked making Jews feel “unwelcome” and “uncomfortable” on campuses.

Earlier this month, Community Security Trust figures showed antisemitic incidents on campuses had doubled, with 41 attacks in 2016 compared with 21 in 2015.