THE local Muslim community has spoken of its desire for peace and racial harmony as local groups present a united front in the wake of the American terrorist atrocities.

Ethnic minorities in the Lancaster district fearing personal attack as a result of the recent US terrorist outrages have been given reassurance by the Lancaster Community Safety Partnership.

The Partnership, whose members include Lancaster City Council, the police and youth and community, has reassured local Muslims that it will take a firm stance against racism.

Chairman of the Partnership, Cnty Cllr Ruth Henig, added: "One of the partnership's key objectives is to make the district a safe and pleasant place in which to live, work and visit. What happened in America is a tragedy and we all have a responsibility to work together as one to ensure that violence and racism play no part in our community."

Chief Supt Stuart Kirby, Divisional Commander, Northern Division, added: "It is a difficult time for all communities as everyone tries to come to terms with the tragic events of last month. Across the area officers are liaising with local communities to reassure and support them at this time.

"Racist attacks on people and property will not be tolerated and we will respond quickly and decisively against all those who commit hate crimes."

The local Muslim Community themselves, who have been a part of Lancaster for more than four decades, say they are deeply saddened by what has happened in America. A spokesman for the community said: "We are praying for peace and harmony for all mankind. Islam does not condone terrorism or violence of any sort."

And the city council's only Asian councillor, Liz Scott, has had face to face meetings with the ethnic community to further improve relations.

She said: "We live in a city which is a community of individuals working together collectively and we deplore any sort of division."

Earlier this year a campaign entitled 'Racism - Hurts A Few But Affects Us All' was launched by the Lancaster Community Safety Partnership to spread the message that racism is unacceptable.

The campaign also highlighted a new support facility for local victims of racial abuse and crime, enabling them to be able to report details directly to officers at Lancaster City Council as well as the police station.

The 24-hour Racial Incident Reporting Line is 67099, the first of its type in the county.