A COMMUNITY is uniting to forge a new future after a racist outrage sparked a huge debate in Orford.

'Phone lines at the GUARDIAN were buzzing after our exclusive story about how offensive graffiti had allegedly lingered for months outside Eddie's store in Central Avenue.

Vandals returned to the shop just hours after our story hit the streets last Friday, daubing swastikas and slogans over pavements and the road.

But police and council workers were praised after moving in to clean up the area hours later.

Neighbourhood leaders hope attempts to offer fresh hope for young people in the area, such as a planned activities centre in Alder Lane, will continue unabated.

Father Tony Slingo said: "Local people are united in deploring this racism and we are full of sadness at this treatment of our neighbourhood shop.

"The police and council responded very promptly and positively to support residents in their outrage."

It is hoped community representatives, council bosses and police can combine to tackle the situation.

Old Orford Residents Association was inundated with offers from community artists wanting to paints murals to cover the graffiti.

Store owner Ken Patel said: "It does not matter about colour - I am looking after the community."

Community sergeant Mike Naughton added: "Our belief is that these kids are not inherently racist."

Police are investigating the incidents and confirmed enquiries are continuing.

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.