An apology has appeared in the Newcastle Journal after it published a photograph that included offensive language.

It related to a female staff member from a local bar who was pictured for an article on identity cards for young drinkers.

The unfortunate description of her occupation was on the screen of a computer in the photo and read: “Blonde slag who loves the c*ck”.

Although the new wording on the mock-up ID card entry was clear when it appeared, no one at the paper noticed and the photo was published on Friday.

Saturday’s apology read: “We would like to apologise for any offence caused by the publication of a picture on Page 3 of yesterday’s newspaper.

“The photograph showed a computer screen which contained offensive language.

“The wording, although very small, was still readable. This should have been spotted and the photograph not published.

“We understand that the offending words were placed there by a bar employee and the company is looking into the matter.”

The article was to show how the club will ask anyone suspected of being under age to show their driving licence or passport.

Their details, along with their photograph, will then be stored on a computer.

A thumb print is also taken, so that every time they return, they do not need to bring identification.

The Journal declined to comment.