Crystal Harrison, STAR Writer

One of Britain's most popular animated children's television series which depicts rastafarian characters who use the Jamaican patois, was the most complained about children's programme in 2011 the Daily Mail has reported.

It is reported that the TV show Rastamouse attracted more than 200 complaints last year.

THE STAR understands that nine out of every 10 persons who complained about the show had a problem with the Jamaican patois spoken by the characters.

It is also reported that many persons who complained about the series felt that it was stereotyping black people.

In January 2011, it was reported that the show, which ran for two series, attracted 13 complaints however, there have been 200 complaints since.

It is reported that the puppet mouse spreads love and uses patois and phrases such as 'me wan go' for 'I want to go' and 'wah gwan' for 'what's going on?'

accused of racism

THE STAR understands that parents have complained that children using the same language as the mice could be accused of racism.

One parent wrote, "I don't want my DD (child) to talk this way. The thing I'm most worried about is her knowing/saying the words like rasta."

"Frankly, this programme is insulting because it uses a lazy stereotype. Children need to learn to speak English properly and I do not understand why having this character would assist that process. If the programme makers want to introduce more diversity, why not have a black character who speaks like a normal British-born black person instead of a character that has a Jamaican accent?" another person wrote.

However, the BBC has defended the show.

According to a BBC spokeswoman, "this was one of our most popular children's programmes last year. We have had a huge amount of positive feedback about Rastamouse, which continues to be a hit with our young viewers and which was consistently in the top 10 CBeebies shows viewed on iPlayer throughout 2011."

THE STAR understands that none of the complaints has been upheld.