Taxi and mini cab drivers, bar staff and restaurateurs have been taught how to spot hate crime following an alarming number of unreported cases in Ipswich the last year.
The training event, organised by BSC Multicultural Services (BSCMS), saw more than 70 people who work in the nighttime economy learn about the importance of tackling hate crime, while hearing what to do if they become victims themselves.
It followed research by BSCMS which found more than 200 cases of unreported hate crime in the town last year, with those working unsociable hours calling for change.
Also in attendance was councillor Alsadair Ross, police officers and staff from Hawk Express, Avenue Taxis and the Suffolk Community Foundation.
The group has agreed to reconvene at a later date, with several more events by the Hate Crime Project in Tower Street planned throughout 2020.
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