Like many others across the country, I have been deeply worried to read reports of a spate of incidences of racial abuse across the UK following the result of the EU Referendum.

I was pleased to see our new Labour Police and Crime Commissioner Jeff Cuthbert sending out a clear message this week that racial abuse and other forms of hate crime will not be tolerated in Gwent. The PCC stressed that hate incidents and crimes can come in many forms -; from graffiti, vandalism and written and verbal insults to threatening behaviour and physical attacks. All are equally divisive and deplorable.

We live in an area that has always been proud of its multiculturalism. Newport’s history and identity has been shaped by migration, and we should celebrate the spirit of tolerance that has always existed in our community.

If you aware of a hate incident or crime, please report it directly to Gwent Police as soon as you can -; 101 in a non-emergency situation, and 999 in an emergency.