'Peace Walk' to take place in Stoke-on-Trent today

-Credit: (Image: Pete Stonier / Stoke Sentinel)
-Credit: (Image: Pete Stonier / Stoke Sentinel)


Community leaders will join with families to take part in a 'Peace Walk' in the Potteries today. The event will see participants walk from Stoke Minster to Hanley's City Central Mosque.

It comes as this year marks the 25th anniversary of International Day of Peace. In North Staffordshire and organisers say the walk is a chance to show 'good relations across all communities' after the Potteries was rocked by riots in Hanley last month.

A spokesperson said: "This will be a family event to encourage dialogue, focussing on ways to improve a peaceful existence and mutual understanding.

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"We will not be carrying placards, instead we hope that people who do not already know each other will talk together, listening and learning about our different experiences and perhaps making new and unexpected friends."

Those taking part will gather at Stoke Minster before heading to City Central Mosque - via Hanley Park. At midday participants will observe 'The Global Minute of Silence' and help create a 'Peace Wave' across the world.

The walk in 2017
The walk in 2017

Meanwhile should it rain, leaders at the nearby YMCA will provide a space for the Global Minute of Silence. The walk is being supported by MPs and council leader Jane Ashworth.

Councillor Ashworth said: "I support the Peace Walk. It is a great opportunity for the city to show that we are kind and decent people."

Dr Allison Gardner, MP for Stoke-on-Trent South, said: "I am delighted to support this year’s Peace Walk and proud that Stoke-on-Trent once again is able to show how we, as a diverse community, stand together in peace and togetherness.”

Families will gather at Stoke Minster at 10.45am before setting off at 11am.

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