RACIAL incidents in Preston have soared by 40 per cent in 12 months, according to figures released by the town's racial equality council.

The figures revealed 90 complaints of racial incidents were recorded to Preston Police in the 12 months to March this year, compared with 64 for the same period in 1998.

In Ribbleton and Preston town centre, 25 racial incidents were recorded by police in each area, with 15 in Fulwood and 14 in Deepdale.

Seven racial incidents were recorded in Ashton during the same period, three in Ingol and a single incident in Longridge.

Verbal abuse sparked 21 incidents which were reported to Preston and Western Lancashire Racial Equality Council (REC) during April 1998 and March 1999 followed by 10 incidents concerning damage to property.

Other racial incidents included seven complaints of physical assault, five threats and three incidents of various types of harassment.

Overall, the figures reveal that racial incidents recorded to the REC also increased from 21 during 1996-97 to 39 in the 12 months leading up to March this year.

The statistics are published in this year's annual report, which was presented to members at the annual meeting this week.

REC director Faruk Desai praised various public sector bodies including the police, NHS and council's for their work in promoting racial equality.

He added: "It is very important that we participate at every level of decision-making.

"It is the responsibility of all the public sector places to make sure that take on board the ideas of the REC to drive the issue of racial equality forward with full force."

Deputy Mayor, Councillor Rose Kinsella, echoed Mr Desai's statements as she stepped down as the REC's president.

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