A HATE-crime investigation has been launched and there will be additional police patrols after "offensive literature" was distributed in a residential area of Manningham.

The Islamophobic leaflets were posted in Hanover Square, and West Yorkshire Police have now started a thorough investigation into what they have described as a "despicable" crime.

A racial justice charity has called for calm heads, and asked for both Bradford Council and the police to to take the issue seriously.

A police spokesman said: “West Yorkshire Police have commenced an investigation following reports of offensive literature being circulated in the Hanover Square area.

“The incident is being treated as a hate crime and being taken extremely seriously.

“A thorough investigation has been launched and officers are working with the local community and partners to identify and prosecute those responsible for this despicable crime.

“We understand the impact hate crime and hate incidents can have on our communities and on individuals, and crimes of this nature will not be tolerated. Additional patrols have been deployed to the area following this report and police are working with local leaders to reassure residents, and to trace those responsible.

“If anyone has any information on this incident, I would ask you to contact police on 101. Information can also be passed to anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Racial justice charity JUST Yorkshire have said they were "incredibly concerned" for the welfare of the Muslim community, particularly those who are visibly Muslim.

They added: "We strongly urge local authorities and police forces to take these threats seriously, and ensure the Muslim community receives the maximum protection."

Chair Nadeem Murtuja said: "This is a time for calm heads, and people in positions of power, locally and nationally, need to become more visible in their stance towards protecting the human rights of all communities, including the Muslim community."