I AM a degree educated, ex-Bolton Council estate resident, who works voluntarily with lifelong Muslim friends on local community projects, and who has helped and worked with friends who are active members of Manchester's Jewish community.
So I would like to say that MEP Mr Gary Titley's comments at the Labour Party Conference about UKIP members being "BNP in suits with posh accents" and "backwoodsmen and little Englanders" are totally out of touch with reality and unhelpful in bridging gaps and building lasting relationships in the community.
As someone who also appointed a Muslim school friend as godfather to my own child some 17 years ago, I feel that Gary Titley's comments are totally abhorrent to those UKIP members who are supported and engage in the community. Having a broad Bolton accent is something I am proud of, as much as I was watching Amir Khan's dad wear the British flag, or as I am of the fact I am actually English.
UKIP is against racism in every form -- and Gary Titley should withdraw his comments.
Ian Upton
Bolton Branch
UKIP Press Office
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article