A member of the Buckingham Palace household has resigned and apologised after “unacceptable and deeply regrettable comments” were made at the Queen Consort’s reception, the Palace has said.

Ngozi Fulani, chief executive of Sistah Space, detailed the conversation on Twitter, describing it as a “violation” and said the experience will “never leave me”.

Ms Fulani, said the household member challenged her when she said her charity was based in Hackney, saying: “No, what part of Africa are YOU from?”

Buckingham Palace said in a statement: “‘We take this incident extremely seriously and have investigated immediately to establish the full details.

“In this instance, unacceptable and deeply regrettable comments have been made. We have reached out to Ngozi Fulani on this matter, and are inviting her to discuss all elements of her experience in person if she wishes.

“In the meantime, the individual concerned would like to express her profound apologies for the hurt caused and has stepped aside from her honorary role with immediate effect.

“All members of the Household are being reminded of the diversity and inclusivity policies which they are required to uphold at all times.”