Bradford has a strong history of standing together in the face of threats to any of our communities. We are horrified at the violence and destruction that towns and cities across Britain have experienced over the last days.

We re-commit ourselves to working together for the safety and protection of our City and District, especially as we prepare to become UK City of Culture next year.

We reject hate speech, threats and violence towards anyone. We stand with and pray for all those feeling anxious and fearful, recognising that Muslims, asylum seekers, refugees and other minority groups have been especially targeted. Our places of worship must be able to stay open and safe.

Our communities of Bradford stand together, condemning all forms of violence, and we urge everyone to remain peaceful and to allow the Police to concentrate on keeping us safe.

We pray for peace.

Dr Kuldip Kaur Bharj, OBE, DL, Bradford Gurdwaras
Mr Rashad Bokhari, Bradford Council for Mosques
Mr Ravinder Dharni, Bradford Hindu Council
The Rt Revd Dr Toby Howarth, Bishop of Bradford
Mr Richard Stroud, MBE, Bradford Synagogue
The Very Revd Andy Bowerman, Dean of Bradford