THERE has been a significant increase in the amount of hate crimes reported across Greater Manchester since the terror attack at an Ariana Grande concert on May 22.

Reports of religious hate crime tripled after the suicide bombing at the Manchester Arena that killed 22 people and seriously injured dozens more.

Other types of hate crime also increased.

One month on from the attack, hate crime reports have now returned to similar reporting levels as before the atrocity.

Greater Manchester Police’s assistant chief constable Rob Potts said: “Greater Manchester has a diverse population, with people from different faiths and backgrounds, and this is something that we are proud of. It is what makes us the city we are.

“We will not tolerate hatred or discrimination of any kind.

“When a major tragedy occurs such as the attacks in Manchester and London, it is sadly not unusual for there to be a spike in the amount of hate crimes, specifically against race and religion, but thankfully they do decrease again quickly.

“We continue to monitor the levels of hate crimes that are reported and it is essential that we remind people about the importance of reporting when a hate crime happens to you, or you see it happening.

“Hate crime is often under reported for a number of reasons, but we want people to have the confidence in coming forward as no-one should be the subject of hate and intolerance.

“We are grateful to have very strong relationships and co-operation with different faith groups in Greater Manchester.

“If you don’t feel comfortable coming to speak to the police you can report a hate crime through Tell Mama, which support victims of Islamophobia, Community Security Trust, which protects British Jews from anti-Semitism, or you can report anonymously by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

“There are also a number of non-police centres that allow you to report incidents in complete confidence.

“More information and for reporting centres locations can be found at letsendhatecrime.com.”

“In an emergency call 999 – this is when a crime is being committed or has just been witnessed, there is a risk of injury or a risk of serious damage to property.

“To report a non-emergency incident or make a general inquiry, call the non-emergency number 101.”