FAITH leaders came together in a show of unity against a controversial protest demonstration set to take place this weekend.

Thirty holy people, representing a cross-section of the world's major religions, met at Stoke Minster yesterday to light a candle in opposition to the English Defence League's (EDL's) planned event in Hanley tomorrow.

Those at the gathering said the act of unity and solidarity symbolised light and love being stronger than darkness and hate.

And they say the event was organised to send a message that the EDL event was not wanted by the communities living in the city.

Faith leaders also hoped it would act as a call for restraint from any possible counter-demonstrations or violent responses.

Christian, Jewish, Sikh and Muslim representatives were among the group.

The Rector of Stoke Minster, Prebendary David Lingwood, said: "Coming together like this is important, because it will send out a positive image of this city.

"Extreme groups are trying to make strides into this city, trying to set the communities against each other and use faith to divide people.

"But we are standing together and, even though we are all different, we are working together to celebrate diversity.

"I hope this city can become a model for the rest of the country to show that it can be done."

Mr Lingwood added: "Others are trying to split us apart, but we all respect each other and get on well together, and if everyone can see that we hope it will have the right impact.

"Our message is no-one should go to the protest, either to support or protest against it, because either way it will just give publicity to it. We want to ignore this group of insignificant people who do not count in this city."

The faith leaders have come together on previous occasions. The most recent example came following the July 7 bombings in London as they looked to counter fears of a backlash on the Muslim community.

Mohammad Nazir Habib, chairman of the Staffordshire Muslim Scholars' Association said: "We are here together and want to show that, in all matters to do with this city, we are with other people in our values and in our respect.

"Muslim people are worried about the EDL protest on Saturday. They are worried about the possibility of violence.

"Nobody should go to counter-protests. We want everyone to live in peace and harmony together."

Sydney Morris, president of the Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire Hebrew Congregation, said: "Holocaust Memorial Day is on January 27 and it brings back the thoughts of what happened and how we must all stand together.

"That history is not taught in schools any longer so we must not forget."

Gurmeet Singh Kallar, a member of the Sikh community, said: "An attack against one faith is an attack against all. Every person of religion here is concerned about violence, particularly in this city."

The EDL plans to meet in Hanley on Saturday as part of a protest against Muslim extremism.