Just days after becoming embroiled in a Twitter spat with Marcus Collins, TOWIE star Maria Fowler has got herself into trouble again.

Last week [uuid=62348cdc-2c59-4347-9635-0f1db35f9700]Marcus accused the glamour model of using homophobic and racist language[/uuid], though Fowler vehemently denied the allegations.

Now, in a separate incident, the Essex girl has admitted to using the term 'half-breed' and released a statement on Twitter by way of an apology.

Yesterday Maria tweeted: "Last night I was overheard discussing the fact I was branded a racist by Marcus Collins. In reaction to the allegations I mentioned that I am not a racist person and I went with a mixed race boy the other week.

"Now stupidly I used the term 'half breed', which means someone who is a mix of ethnicities, I then laughed at the stupidity of the situation. What I did not realise (and now fully regret) is that the term 'half breed' is seen by some, as derogatory it is a word that has openly been used by my peers through my life."

The reality star went on to explain that the dictionary definition of 'half breed' is "the offspring of parents of dual racial origin" and stated that she found racism "sickening and ignorant."

She went on: "I have never been a racist and to suggest so is deeply hurtful and sickening. It's a difficult world where the slightest comment and people jump and a bandwagon so quick to brand you racist. And it's a shame."

Apologising again for using the 'terminology', Maria added: "This is a mistake I will definatly learn from. I am not perfect and we all make our mistakes. But once again I am not a racist and deeply sorry for any offence that may have been caused."

[uuid=de6c6bc2-37a7-4e34-a260-5cffb97d24ef]SEE SNAPS FROM THE X FACTOR 2011 HERE![/uuid]