SIR – THE plans for a new mosque have understandably divided opinion in Worcester and, whilst I welcome debate both for and against the proposals, I cannot tolerate the bigoted and racist views being expressed by a vociferous minority.

These people are opposing the mosque on the ignorant belief that all Muslims are antagonistic to our British traditions and refuse to integrate with wider society. They claim that they want to ‘take over Worcester’ and force Sharia law on the city. How ridiculous!

To generalise an entire faith or culture based on the violence or criminality of a minority within that group is the definition of ignorance. It’s like saying that all white people are genocidal racists because Hitler was, or that all Americans enjoy firing off incendiary tweets.

So, to the people of Worcester I say: if you oppose the mosque, do so on planning grounds, not out of ignorant sweeping generalisations.

DIANE SMITH

Worcester