A NEW scheme has been launched in Preston to help victims of physical and race-related violence.

The Racial Harassment Project, based at the Unity Centre, Shepherd Street has been praised by police and already has 20 cases on its books.

The project, organised through the Preston and West Lancashire Racial Equality Council, aims to help victims of race attacks by offering them confidential help and advice.

It aims to run for a further three years after securing a Community Fund grant.

Suraya Bashir, from Fishwick, a full-time co-ordinator at the project which covers Preston and South Ribble, said: "We are concerned about the level of racial harassment in Lancashire and so far we've had the most number of cases in Preston.

"We are here for everyone whatever their colour or race."

Police officers at Preston police have hailed the service and hope it will encourage people to report incidents of racial violence.

Chief Inspector Alan Whyllie, in charge of community safety in Preston, said: "We are fully supportive of the project. The work that these racial harassment officers are doing is very important.

"They are encouraging people to report incidents which we can then fully investigate and prosecute the perpetrators. People must report racial crimes, so we can prosecute and take every opportunity to stop these incidents."

The project, which was set up two months ago, also puts victims of racial harassment in touch with support services. It also covers the Chorley, Lancaster, Fylde and Wyre areas.

Suraya, and colleague Nafysa Patel, guide victims on what action to take and provide a language interpretation service.

Working closely with police they hope to help cut the number of racially motivated attacks.

Suraya said: "We would urge anyone who is a victim to report incidents, to us or the police, if an attack happens again then there will be a record and action can be taken.

"In Fishwick, because of increasing reports, there are now more police on the streets."

The project also aims to promote a wider understanding of issues relating to racial harassment by getting community organisations, such as the Preston Muslim Forum, on board.

"There are a lot of reasons for racial harassment," she said. "There is ignorance involved to a certain extent.

"Religion can cause misunderstandings and a lot of problems occur with children."