MIGRANTS living in Dorset have reported racism and discrimination since the UK voted to leave the European Union.

Some have told the county's Race Equality Council they have noticed "increased hostility from certain members of the community as they go about their daily lives."

Across the country there has been an unsurge in anecdotal reports of abuse towards EU migrants, with Polish and Muslim residents being told to 'go home'.

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Now the council has urged the public to reject any form of hostility towards individuals or groups based on their migratory status.

"We recognise that throughout the referendum campaign emotive language and images have been used around the issue of migration, some of which have been widely considered to incite racism against migrants living in our communities" said a spokesman.

"We have also been approached by individuals who feel targeted by some referendum campaign materials. Dorset Race Equality Council recognises the important contribution that migrants make to our local economy and community.

"We encourage anyone who experiences any such form of racism or discrimination to report their experiences to Dorset Police and/or approach us for advice and support."

In a statement published today Dorset Race Equality Council said it recognises that tensions have run high on both sides of the debate but said work must now be done to bridge the leave/remain divide.

"At Dorset Race Equality Council we appeal to all members of our community to proceed in a spirit of mutual respect, seeking dialogue and understanding of the complex arguments upon which voters have based their choices" added the spokesman.

"Moreover, we call upon all members of the community to be mindful of the thousands of EU citizens currently resident in Dorset, who may not have had the opportunity to vote, but are nevertheless impacted by the result of the referendum."