Voters have chance to support party of tolerance

The opportunity has arisen after the decision by some of the town's residents to form a new group, Bognor Together '“ Hope Not Hate, as the May 3 elections approach.

They will be distributing a leaflet around the town in the next fortnight to outline the group's aims.

A statement issued by the group's founders said those involved had 'come together because of a shared concern to build tolerance and understanding in our community'.

They wanted existing residents to 'offer welcome and support to the new east European workers in the town, rather than to blame them or any section of our community for the problems we face'.

They stressed Bognor Together had no party political affiliation. All the mainstream politican parties and the Independent town councillors had been approached for their support.

Churches, community groups, businesses and trade unions had been asked for backing as well.

The charter for hope not hate, which they have devised, states that everyone who agrees to its aim to share a spirit of understanding and tolerance among all people whatever their disability, sexuality, ethnicity, faith, culture, gender or age.

It comments: 'Bognor Regis has a long and proud history of welcoming a wide variety of people as visitors and residents.

'Our town depends on everyone working together and, only by being outward looking, can we make sure that the town flourishes.

'If we work together to improve our understanding of each other, then this will help the revival and development of the area.

'Bognor Together supports fairness, tolerance and understanding in our community.'