Grant to cut race hate in streets of 7/7 bombers

Hamara Healthy Living Centre in Beeston will use the Big Lottery Fund grant of 252,353 to offer a range of activities and workshops for young people to reduce discord, racial tension and racially motivated incidents between gangs.

The Leeds suburb became notorious in July 2005 when three young men born and raised in Beeston detonated home-made bombs in London.

The project will train community members to run workshops for 14 to 19-year-olds identified as either belonging to, or at risk of being influenced by, gangs.

A Big Lottery Fund spokeswoman said: "The workshops will examine and dispel the negative preconceptions that can cause tension between communities.

"They will explore the values of respect and tolerance, while discussing the drawbacks of extremist politics and use a 'philosophy for children' course to discuss these issues and develop reasoned responses."

Sporting events such as football will also be used to bring communities together and build rapport. Upon completing the programme, participants will be encouraged to pass the message on to other young people.

Calderdale Citizens Advice Bureau has also received a grant from the fund of 125,905 over three years, which will be used to continue and expand its advice services.

The current volunteer team will be expanded by 40 per cent to offer specialist advice in community centres, women's groups and day centres.

Family breakdown advice will also be added to the range of services, providing advice and support for issues such as debt, housing and welfare difficulties that can affect people following a family breakdown.