The 'atmosphere of fear' that has arisen in Reading following recent national riots has been addressed by local leading politicians.

Yuan Yang, the Labour MP for Earley and Woodley, addressed an interfaith meeting of Muslim and Sikh community leaders at the Ramgarhia Sabah Gurdwara, London Road, Earley. The meeting was held on Thursday, August 8.

In a welcoming address, Surjit Singh Jutla, chair of the Gurdwara trustees, mentioned that there is close contact and cooperation among various communities in Reading and Woodley and he asked all to continue and strengthen this trend.

The meeting was called among rumours of planned disorder in Reading following unrest and riots across England this month, leading to fears for community safety.

Baldev Singh Sian, a trustee of the Gurdwara, said that due to rumours of potential rioting in Reading, the Ramgarhia was not able to supply food to homeless people during the first weekend of August.

Hatice Yalcin from the dialogue society of the Turkish community spoke candidly about how the disorder led her to question her inclusion in the community and had led to a feeling of ‘being different’.

She voiced her fear of leaving the house and being targeted for being a Muslim and wearing a headscarf.

Ms Yang addressed the concerns raised by those present at the meeting and spoke about the importance of community cohesion. She expressed her belief in the importance of community belonging where issues should be discussed in a constructive way instead of a divisive one.

Ms Yang said: “Community engagement and cohesion is the key. There is no evidence of planned violence in Reading and we should carry on with our daily activities and not disrupt our lives.

“People may change their day-to-day lives by believing social media rumours which are aimed to stoke fear and division. It would be a shame to give in to what they want.”

Admonishing those who would seek to divide people, councillor Majid Nagra (Labour, Loddon) said: “Don’t allow them to change you. If they change you, then this is their victory.”

Mr Singh Jutla agreed, emphasising the importance of not falling victim to provocation. He said: “It is our duty to keep the calm and make sure there is no violent reaction to these provocations.”

The statement was echoed by Shakeel Khan representing Aisha Mosque, who said he was actively advising people not to take part in counter-protests. He spoke of concerns for the safety of individuals from the community, asking them to go about their daily lives while being sensible and mindful at the same time.

Meanwhile, Gurchkran Singh of the Gurdawara in Cumberland Road and Mr Khan called for security for worship places on a long-term basis.