Library officials banned a youth leader from putting up a poster because they said it was too religious.

Jacalyn Oghan, who helps out at St Mary’s Church, in Upper Rock Gardens, Brighton, went to the city’s Jubilee Library to advertise a multi-faith event.

But when she asked for permission to put up a poster she was told she could not as it would promote religion - despite the library shop offering products which appear to mock Christianity.

The Messiah mints, which claim to provide Holy fresh breath, are sold in a tin with a picture of Jesus on the front.

The slogan says: “He can't feed the 5,000 with this cute little tin of peppermints, but you'll feel a whole lot better after your hearty banquet of fish and loaves!”

Mrs Oghan told The Argus she was angry when she saw them on sale.

She said: “It’s political correctness gone mad and I do think it’s a little hypocritical.

“They said they couldn’t put up my poster because it was not in their guidelines.

“How they can get away selling the mints in the shop when I’m not allowed to give out inoffensive leaflets I do not know.

“They clearly take the mickey out of Christianity. I’m not offended but was angry that they were allowed to sell these mints for a profit.

“How is it that they are allowed to sell mints which clearly contain a religious figure?

“It is so sad they can do that, yet a leaflet inclusive to all faiths and cultures is still deemed non-PC.”

A spokeswoman for the council said: "We're sorry that this person was upset with the incident in the library.

“In the interests of fairness, we have very clear and strict guidelines for displaying information in the library and we do not accept any material promoting a particular religious view point.

“With regards to the mints, these are one of a series of tinned mints sold in the shop. The labelling is not meant to offend and this is the first time we have received negative comments about them."