Diners gathered in Ipswich for a communal meal of international delicacies as part of a day of action to celebrate the contribution migrants make to the town.

Around 30 people, including families with young children, enjoyed a “bring and share” platter at La Tour Cycle Cafe on Monday to mark, One Day Without Us.

The national campaign aims to highlight the role non-UK nationals play in British society.

Andrea, who organised the event, said “It was positive and inclusive, we chatted over international food about our connections with other countries and about what can be done to counteract some of the hatred and fear that has become widespread in the aftermath of the Brexit vote.

“People had the opportunity to draw a ‘community map’ showing where they are welcome, where they contribute and what local businesses they support.

“They were also invited to write postcards to their MPs and to put thoughts, feelings and suggestions on sticky notes.”

Phanuel Mutumburi, from ISCRE (Ipswich and Suffolk Council for Racial Equality), attended and handed out a Brexit factsheet with some practical information and advice for EU migrants.

ISCRE runs a project called Living Rights in the region that seeks to ensure newly arrived EU citizens are aware of their legal rights and know where to turn for help and how to access services.

Ipswich Borough Councillor Shelly Darwin was also at the dinner table on Monday.

She said: “I was proud to attend this event in solidarity with our wonderfully diverse Ipswich community.

“Using shared food to celebrate was an inspired idea from Andrea. It was a very mixed plateful from around the globe.

“From British fish and chips from the chippy to German cheese dip; from pickles and olives to blackbean sauce noodles.

“A true taste of Ipswich’s diversity.”