THE FOUNDER of a group set up to unite the city through culture and creativity has urged people to 'love not hate' in response to this week's far-right riots. 

The city council's deputy leader Cllr Jabba Riaz gave an impassioned speech at the Worcester Show today (Sunday, August 11) following a week in which far-right riots have blighted cities across the country. 

Cllr Riaz founded Worcester Mela after his mayoral year to spread the message of 'love not hate' and he said this was his way of finding a way to unite the city. 

In his speech today, Cllr Riaz said: "Through all the hate and division that we've had so far, it is even more crucial that we are united under this banner and this is a way for me to display the beautiful culture from south asia to you. 

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"It has been an absolute labour of love, our message is not only love not hate but we want to unite the city through colour, creativity and community.

"What you see here today is a display of love from the bottom of our hearts and in the current climate, it is even more important to show how beautiful this city and this country are in terms of challenging the far-right narrative."

The Worcester Mela is back at the Worcester Show for its third year and will be holding several workshops and family activities as well as several artistic performances on stage. 

Before the event, Cllr Riaz released a statement saying the show must go on.

It read: "Worcester is a safe and peaceful city, it is one of the safest, happiest and kindest places to live in the UK.

"Although there is no credible threat to this thuggery, looting and violent disorder taking place in the city so far, the police have provided reassurance they are fully prepared to counter any terrorism and disorder from any planned gatherings. 

"By you helping and supporting us at the Worcester Show we'll send a clear signal to those that seek to divide us we will not let it affect our daily lives and we will stand united in the face of racism and hate."