FAITHS and communities come together as part of an annual interfaith walk.

Organised by the Basingstoke Interfaith Forum in collaboration with Basingstoke Multicultural Forum (BMF) and Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, the event aims to reinforce the spirit of solidarity and cohesion amongst the diverse faith groups in the town.

The walk started from Chute House in Church Street and progressed through the Top of The Town with a brief stop at Wills Museum where Bishop Graham Owen led the group in a silent prayer and reflection for peace.

The reflection symbolised an act of solidarity by people of all faiths in rejecting violence around the world. Thereafter, the procession continued to Carnival Hall for educative presentations about different faiths.

Setting out on the sunny Sunday, the group were joined by the mayor of Basingstoke and Deane, Councillor Diane Taylor.

Cllr Taylor said: “The rich diversity of faiths and ethnicities in Basingstoke help to make the town such a great place to live and I feel privileged to have been a resident of this lovely town for more than 40 years.

“As a person of faith, I recognise the value that different faiths bring to our area and how the annual walk supports inter faith relationships in our community. I commend the organising committee for creating such a unique opportunity to connect and celebrate friendship.”

Following the success of the annual walk, the Basingstoke Interfaith Forum along with the BMF, is set to host an interfaith dinner in November.

Toju Ogbe from the BMF added: “It was heartening to see that different communities were genuinely interested in the insightful presentations on various faiths.

“This is indicative of the mutual respect and understanding amongst the diverse faith groups in Basingstoke, and BMF is proud to be playing a role in making it happen.”

For more information visited bmforum.org.uk.