The inter-faith peace rally planned to mark the first anniversary of the riots which sent shock waves across the whole of Bradford is just what the city needs to set the seal on a new era of harmony. It is also the right thing to do to demonstrate to the wider world that we have moved on in the months since just about every TV news bulletin in the world carried frightening images of the mayhem in our streets.

A lot of progress has been made since then to deal with the minority of troublemakers whose irresponsible actions did so much harm to Bradford's reputation, and to bridge the gulf they created between the communities. Decent, law-abiding people in all parts of the city have made it clear that they want nothing to do with such divisive behaviour and fully appreciate the need for everyone to work together to make Bradford a peaceful, progressive and prosperous place.

It has become obvious that a lot of the ordinary people of Manningham and Heaton, whatever their racial background, were distressed and deeply affronted by the events of last July and have become even more determined to maintain the harmony that previously existed in their streets and avenues.

It is very encouraging that the planned peace rally has gained the support of religious leaders from Christian, Muslim, Sikh and Hindu communities, all of whom have declared their commitment to reinforce that harmony. Many things have happened to put Bradford on the map in positive ways since the riots, but a grand gesture of reconciliation is important to demonstrate that the troubles are firmly in the past.