CIVIC leaders in Taunton Deane have added their voice of support to victims of hate crimes and anti-immigrant abuse.

Members of Taunton Deane Borough Council have endorsed an open letter from the Chief Constable Andy Marsh and Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens in response to a reported increase in hate crime incidents in the Avon and Somerset police area.

Police are urging victims of hate crime – and those who may feel vulnerable – to report any incidents. “Don’t suffer in silence,” is their message.

A meeting of Taunton Deane full council supported the motion to back the open letter proposed by the executive councillor for Community Leadership, Cllr Jane Warmington, and seconded by Cllr Richard Parrish.