Talks aim to halt hate crimes

Ethnic minorities may face violence because of their race

A conference on hate crime is being held in Carlisle on Thursday.

Delegates from across the north west will discuss abuse or violence towards people because of their race, religion or sexual orientation.

The conference will bring together representatives from the police, courts, prison service and probation service.

Cumbria Police say they are concerned people may not report hate crimes because they do not trust the system.

The conference aims to send out a message to victims and offenders that all agencies are working to ensure those responsible are brought before the courts.