A plea has been made for cultural and ethnic diversity in Norwich to be celebrated and racism opposed in the wake of the vote to leave the European Union.

The leaders of the three political parties at Norwich City Council issued a joint statement calling for the city to take pride in its multi-racial heritage.

Following the Brexit vote, there have been reports of hate crime increasing in some parts of the country, although it is understood there has been no significant increase in Norfolk.

Norwich City Council unanimously voted, in 2013, to declare that the authority was proud of the city's 'diverse and multi-racial heritage' and would work to combat racism.

In its new statement, Labour leader Alan Waters, Green leader Martin Schmierer and Liberal Democrat leader James Wright said: 'Following Thursday's referendum result there are members of our community who feel fearful about what the future may hold for them in our country.

'We, as people of Norwich, should be reminded and encouraged to take pride in our ethnic and cultural diversity and rejoice in what we can share with and learn from others. Above all, we should be on our guard against anything or anyone who sets out to destroy it.'