COUNCIL chiefs have expanded a service aimed at stopping racial harassment in Bolton. They have appointed a new racial harassment officer and one of the tasks will be to act as a "professional witness."

People who complain about harassment are often too scared to give evidence in court.

It is hoped that by having someone to read out a statement in court, they can be spared the ordeal.

Council bosses have reported an increase in harassment cases over the years as more people are coming forward to report incidences. But they believe this could be just "the tip of the iceberg" and are hoping the new officer will help them to uncover other cases where people are suffering in silence.

It is also hoped to expand the work outside the council estates into the private housing sector. The aim is also to promote an anti-racist message in schools.

The officer will be working closely with police and will be recruiting a team of volunteers to provide support services.

The new racial harassment project is due to be officially launched on February 18.

It has been funded by a Lottery Grant received by the Bolton Racial Equality Council.

Cllr Noel Spencer, chairman of Bolton's housing committee, said: "This is an important expansion of our work to reduce racial harassment in Bolton."

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