BARROW council rivals have issued a joint statement urging residents to be kind following a rise in community tensions.

Community tensions have risen after a woman shared a post on social media alleging she had been subjected to serious sexual assaults by a gang of Asian men.

A statement from councillor Ann Thomson, Barrow Borough Council leader, and councillor Hazel Edwards, leader of the Conservative opposition group, explained that these last few months have been tough, but that Barrow prides itself on kindness towards one another.

“The past months have been unprecedented across the country,” the statement said.

“They have without a doubt placed us all, as individuals and as a community, under intense pressure.

“This weekend, levels of tension in our borough have escalated and emotions have run high.

“This is Barrow. We pride ourselves on the kindness and understanding we show to each other, especially under difficult circumstances.

“Please continue to be calm, to be respectful and to build each other up. We are strongest together, always.”

Barrow and Furness MP Simon Fell has also previously called for calm.

A range of community-based organisations are able to help anyone in need across the borough:

MIND in Furness: 01229 827094

Women’s Community Matters: 01229 311102

SAFA: 01229 832269

Citizen’s Advice Bureau: 01229 830367

Cumbria Emergency Support Helpline: 0800 783 1966