VARIOUS faith groups and communities in Basingstoke came together to participate in the annual Interfaith Walk.

Organised by the Basingstoke Multicultural Forum (BMF) and Faith Leaders Forum, the event sees residents of all backgrounds walk from War Memorial Park, through the Top of Town to Willis Museum in a show of solidarity.

Held on Sunday, 17, September the annual walk aims to promote harmony and friendship among people of different faiths in Basingstoke.

Spokesperson for the BMF Toju Ogbe said: “We are pleased to see the enthusiasm demonstrated by different faith groups in Basingstoke as they join hands to break barriers and build bridges of friendship through the Interfaith Walk.

“This is a true reflection of what the world needs today – friendship, love and understanding, regardless of our faith, race or political stance; it is precisely what drives the Basingstoke Multicultural Forum as an umbrella body of BME communities within the borough.”

Rev. Rosalind Rutherford of the Faith Leaders Group officiated a silent prayer and contemplation for peace, as an act of solidarity by people of all faiths in rejecting violence around the world.

The Interfaith Walk continued to the Basingstoke Irish Centre for refreshments and talks from community leaders about peace, friendship and social cohesion.

Joining the Faith Leaders and members of the community on the walk was mayor of Basingstoke and Deane, councillor Paul Frankum.

Cllr Frankum said: “The demographics of Basingstoke and Deane is becoming more culturally diversified and events like these are essential to help strengthen the links between the different community groups.

“We are proud of the peaceful co-existence among the different communities in the borough, and will continue to support the Multicultural Forum in its drive for cohesion and social contact among different groups.”

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council’s cabinet member for communities and community safety, councillor Simon Bound was another member of the procession, who said the walk was a great way for people to come together.

Cllr Bound added: “We feel strongly that everybody has a right to be part of this community and feel safe in it, regardless of our differences.

We have more in common as humans; hence it is important that we continue working together, because those who want to drive a wedge between us must not succeed.”