Any act of violence is shocking for the victim and anyone else unfortunate enough to witness it.

But it almost beggars belief that there are still so many crimes which have an undertone of racism or homophobia.

The case of Guy Newson and a rise in racially aggravated prosecutions shows that, as much as we may like to think otherwise, Brighton and Hove and its surrounding area suffers the same problems as any other city.

Yes, there is a feeling that it is an area where people of any race or sexual leaning are welcome and in many ways that is true. Just look at the number of people from varying ethnic and religious backgrounds who live here and marvel at the diversity of events such as gay Pride, which attracts thousands of people.

But all too often The Argus contains stories of people persecuted or attacked for their sexuality, colour or religion.

The vast majority of residents are open-minded and the police take claims of discrimination seriously. But they cannot fight the battle against the bigots alone.

It is vital that a message of tolerance is sent to children and young people so they do not grow-up full of hate.

It is difficult to make older people who hold these abhorrent views change their outlook. But for the sake of the community, they should not pass their prejudices on to others.

Only then will we be truly able to say Brighton and Hove is a place for everyone. Bar none.