“VICIOUS” hate crime has no place in society, Bolton’s police and crime commissioner has said.

Tony Lloyd is speaking out in support of National Hate Crime Awareness Week, encouraging victims of hate crime to come forward, report it and get the help and support they need.

He said: “Hate crime has no place in our society. It is vicious and destroys lives. That’s why we need to stand together against those abhorrent individuals who seek to divide our communities.

“If you have been a victim of hate crime, please come forward. Whether you report it directly to police or, if you don’t feel comfortable speaking directly to them, at a third party reporting centre, I want victims to be reassured that the police will take it seriously and will work to bring those responsible to justice.

Hate crime is a crime committed against someone because of their disability, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation or transgender identity.

In April, Greater Manchester Police also became the first police force in the UK to record alternative subculture hate crime which includes groups such as Goths, Emos, Punks and Metallers.

To report a hate crime contact the police on 101 or dial 999 where there’s a threat to life or a crime is in progress.