COMMUNITY groups are being called on to help a new team strengthen the town’s cohesion.

A cross-party and multi-faith group has been set up to 'champion community cohesion’ and build on the town’s 'strong tradition of celebrating diversity and tolerance’.

The group, made up of five Slough councillors, is inviting organisations or groups to get in touch and share their ideas.

A statement released by the group read: “Slough is an area proud of its diversity, communities and tolerance.

“We are putting politics aside, creating a cross-party group to champion community cohesion and build on the strong history our town has of welcoming difference and celebrating shared humanity.

“So we call on Slough’s residents to join us and work with us in encouraging all residents to contribute to the cohesion and tolerance our town is famous for. Together we can all play a part.” The group is made up of councillors Mohammed Sharif, Diana Coad, Sohail Munawar, Joginder Bal and Ishrat Shah. They met for the first time on Tuesday last week.

The statement added: “We stand together in Slough to offer our thoughts and prayers for those affected by the atrocities taking place in Iraq and Syria. As councillors from across faiths and political parties, we condemn the brutality of IS.

“This type of barbarism has no place in the world.” During the coming months the group will contact community organisations, including places of worships, youth, residents and voluntary groups to talk about their work.

For more information, email communications@slough.gov.uk or call 01753 875088.