IN a huge display of unity, around 100 people took part in a vigil in Breightmet following a spate of attacks.

A peace walk was organised by a group of mums from Breightmet who wanted to showcase solidarity within the community.

'Strength in unity', 'unity in the community', 'stop racist attacks' and 'yes to diversity' were some of the messages written on banners and placards.

One of the organisers was mum Francesca Platt, who has lived in Breightmet for more than 20 years.

The 40-year-old said: "There are lots of different incidents happening across the neighbourhood.

"There has been a lot of division sown over the last few months.

"I think it is really important that our community stands together. The majority of people in this area want to live in peace with their neighbours.

"We are Breightmet united."

Ms Platt is a community worker at Voice Box in Breightmet and says the group has seen a marked increase in the number of race-related hate crimes over the last year.

A police officer and four PCSOs were on hand to assist at the gathering.

Councillor John Byrne, who represents Breightmet on Bolton Council, said: "This is about solidarity and the people coming together to show that we do not want hate crime in our community."

Councillor Stuart Haslam, who represents Bradshaw, said: "We are here to support the community and to express our deep concern for a recent victim. She has all our hopes and prayers that she would make a speedy recovery."

Representatives from Bolton Destitution Project, The Sanctuary Bolton, Bolton Stand Up To Racism, Bolton Against Racism and the National Education Union (NEU) attended the march.

Bolton trades council chair Neil McAlister said: "We think it is very important that people stand together and reject any attempt to divide communities.

"The only way situations can improve is if we stand together. That is why we think it is fantastic that mums of Breightmet have come together to organise this march of local people and people from other communities, refugee groups, trade unions and more.

"It is a tremendous turn out.

"We are very proud to be supporting these women and helping to build an anti-racist movement."