Gravesham has a mix of religions and is renowned for its good community relations. Reporter ALISON WHITE takes a closer look at each group and their work in the borough.

GRAVESHAM has one of the largest proportions of people from ethnic minorities in Kent 10.5 per cent of its population.

The Sikh population, which makes up nearly seven per cent of the community, is the second highest in the south east.

And the borough is well-known for its harmony between religious faiths.

News Shopper is taking an in-depth look at each religious group in Gravesham.

Census material from 2001 shows, among others, there are Christians, Sikhs, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists and Jewish people living side by side in the borough.

In a series of weekly features, we will take a look at each faith group and its involvement in the community and with other religions.

We are interested in what each group thinks is the secret of success to Gravesham's rich diversity.

Many people have worked hard to ensure racial equality across the borough.

The North West Kent Racial Equality Council exists to promote good relations between different racial groups.

It provides free and confidential advice to victims of racial discrimination and harassment.

The racial equality council also works closely with statutory services to ensure they provide an appropriate service to the community.

It has strong links with Gravesham Council, ensuring positive links are sustained between the council and ethnic minority communities.

And Gravesham Council has been awarded Beacon Status for promoting racial equality.

The Government award recognises excellence in the delivery of services and provides a marker for other councils.

Gravesham is host to a series of community festivals celebrating the heritage of different religions.

Each year the Vaisakhi festival in Gravesend, which celebrates the birth of Sikhism, has one of the biggest processions in the UK and attracts thousands of people.

The annual Big Day Out is held to celebrate community cohesion in Gravesham and offers dance, food and music.

Council leader Councillor John Burden said: "I am very pleased with the number of religious groups we have.

"We should be proud of what we have got here and to have had harmony for so many years."

  • Would you like to talk about your faith? Call 01689 885715 or email alisonw@london.newsquest.co.uk