The MP for Hertsmere and the leader of Hertsmere Borough Council have made a Rosh Hashanah pledge to fight hatred, religious intolerance and discrimination.

As Jewish people mark Rosh Hashanah, the celebration of the Jewish New Year, Oliver Dowden and Cllr Morris Bright made the pledge in a meeting at Hertsmere Civic Offices in Borehamwood.

Mr Dowden said: ‘Everyone should be able to enjoy the same religious tolerance we have had in this country over the past centuries.

"That’s why, for Rosh Hashanah this year, we are renewing our commitment of solidarity to fight hatred, religious intolerance and unfair discrimination in all its forms as your elected representatives.

"Anyone who has any concerns should not hesitate get in touch and raise them with us.

"I wish everyone in the community a happy New Year, Shana Tova."

Cllr Bright added: "Hertsmere is the second most diverse district in Hertfordshire. We work very hard in Hertsmere to bring all our faiths together and practice tolerance.

"In our most recent residents’ survey, 85 per cent of local people agree that those of different ethnic backgrounds get on well together here.

"We must do everything we can by working together so that everyone in Hertsmere continues to feels safe and happy living in our Borough regardless of faith and ethnic background.

"This pledge makes that commitment."

The pledge comes as Chief Inspector for Hertsmere Steve O'Keeffe praised the way in which his officers have worked with the Community Security Trust to keep Jewish people safe in the borough.