AN event to raise awareness of hate crime takes place at Walton Hall next week.

On Tuesday, July 8, from 1pm until 4pm, wheelchair fencer Adrian Derbyshire will talk about his story and Claire Haslam, from (LGBT) Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Community, will tell her story of challenging prejudice and hate crime.

Clr Pat Wright, executive board member for health, wellbeing and adult services said “Hate crime can destroy lives and instil fear into its victims and witnesses. It can stop people from living and enjoying their everyday lives.

“But our message is a positive one. The police can and do prosecute hate crime offenders.

“But we can all do more. The Hate Crime Partnership, which includes the council, police, and other partners, works across all agencies and its emphasis is on prevention and tackling those ‘lower level’ incidents that not only are intolerable, but so frequently lead to more serious crimes and damage the whole community.”

For more, e-mail kim.speakup@gmail.com or call 248470. A programme and more details will then be sent to you.