'Hate has no home in our county' - council leader

Somerset Council leader Bill Revans said residents must stand together against hate

A council leader has condemned recent attacks on faith buildings and said "hate has no home" in the county.

Somerset Council leader Bill Revans made the comments at a full council meeting on Thursday, in response to councillor Habib Farbahi who referenced acts of vandalism at a mosque in Taunton and a Portuguese-speaking church service in Bridgwater.

Mr Revans said the council is working with the police and community groups to identify where tensions are rising and to challenge misinformation.

"Hate has no home in Somerset," Mr Revans said. "We must stand together to oppose the small minority who seek to intimidate or divide us."

He added that Somerset's diversity is one of "its greatest strengths".

"By recognising and embracing our differences, we lay the foundation for stronger, more resilient communities - ensuring Somerset remains a place where everyone belongs," Mr Revans said.

Mr Farbahi said that given the recent vandalism "many residents are understandably concerned about safety and community harmony".

He asked what steps the council was taking to prevent any further escalation of tensions and reassure residents.

As well as working with the police, Mr Revans said: "Understanding is vital to make sure we can appreciate one another and the contributions we all bring.

"We will continue to challenge misinformation around asylum and immigration and increase understanding of the positive benefits of different communities in Somerset."

He said he had met with officials from Churches Together Somerset and representatives of other faiths to assure them of support.

'United'

This week Mr Revans co-signed an open letter to residents of Avon and Somerset alongside Clare Moody, the Police and Crime Commissioner, and other council leaders from the policing area.

It said: "We are investing in neighbourhood policing, supporting community groups, and encouraging everyone to report hate crime.

"We urge anyone who has experienced or witnessed a hate crime or criminal damage to come forward.

"You will be listened to and there is support available for you from the police and partners.

"Our message is clear: we are united against hate."