The media regulator Ofcom has dismissed complaints about the use of the words "bigger, fatter, gypsier" in an advertisement for the reality television show Big Fat Gypsy Weddings.

More than 300 people complained to the Advertising Standards Authority, saying the television and billboard advertisements for the Channel 4 show were offensive and racist.

But Ofcom deemed the comparative adjectives not in violation of the broadcasting code.

Last month, in response to complaints about the advertisement, Channel 4 addressed the word "gypsier" in a statement, saying it

refers to the fact that this series offers even greater access and insight to the communities featured, and the terms "gypsy" or "gypsier" are not being used in a negative context.

Paddy Doherty, star of the show, is featured in the billboard advertisement, the word "gypsier" across his jacket.

Big Fat Gypsy Weddings is currently in its second season, and Channel 4 says it is planning a third.