Terror.. on our street

We may quit town after riots shatter peace | But hope as residents unite against hatred

- LUCY THORNTON, NICK SOMMERLAD and ALEX STOREY

THE peaceful lives of residents living in mixed communities across the country have been shattered by the raging mobs who brought hatred to our streets.

And last night, one Asian family targeted by mindless far-right cowards told how they are now too scared to leave their home and are even considering moving.

Others told how they were caught up in the rioting that plagued towns such as Southport, Rotherham, Middlesbrough and Tamworth.

Migrant hotels have been stormed, mosques attacked, shops looted and even libraries and Citizens Advice centres set ablaze by marauding gangs of fake patriots claiming to be "protecting children" in the wake of the horrific knife deaths of three young girls in Southport, Merseyside.

But there have also been heartening stories of residents pulling together to clean up the mess and unite against the racist thugs.

EXHAUSTED

News of the disgraceful scenes reached overseas, where several countries, including Nigeria, Malaysia and Indonesia, issuing travel alerts to citizens thinking of travelling here.

And many white locals have also suffered as their homes and streets are targeted by the mobs.

Dilu Barua, 57, told how she had to hide in her Middlesbrough house with husband Amar, son Remu Barua, 34, his wife Rupa, 31, and their 18-month-old baby girl Ridita as the masked gangs rampaged through the streets for hours on Sunday.

The family are originally from Bangladesh but have lived in the Teesside town for three years.

Dilu said: "I want to move now. I never had any racism until now. I haven't slept since and I'm exhausted.