Schoolchildren make 2,500 posters promoting unity following Peacehaven mosque arson

ITV News Meridian's Andy Dickenson has been speaking to local children involved with the community campaign.

2,500 posters and signs have been made by school pupils promoting unity and tolerance following an arson attack at a mosque in Sussex.

It's five months since the place of Muslim worship in Peacehaven came under attack, with two people having to escape from the burning building.

A police investigation resulted in arrests and charges for two people who are due to stand trial on suspicion of arson.

In a bid to tackle division, the Community of Kindness project has been working with local children to create the colourful pieces of artwork.

2,500 signs and banners have been created Credit: ITV Meridian

Using words and phrases such as 'don't hate, create' and 'everybody is welcome', the messages are being displayed on lamp posts and billboards in Seaford, Newhaven, Peacehaven and Telscombe.

Sally Franceshi, head teacher of Breakwater Academy said, "I'm really proud of what our children have done as part of this project.

"They've really jumped on board with enthusiasm. It's about thinking about kind actions, kind words, and tolerance is really important as well because we don't know people.

"We don't know, where they're from, their cultures, their backgrounds. Maybe they've got hidden disabilities or whatever, but it's taking people for who they are, treating them equally, treating them fairly, and just showing kindness to them."

The artwork is designed to promote unity and peace Credit: ITV Meridian

The project is the brains of Look Again, a socially creative initiative that's previously delivered bright and vibrant murals in the area.

“This is our largest participatory art project to date,” says Charlotte Parsons from Look Again.

“Showing art in the public realm is about much more than sharing space - it’s an energising mix of place, people and creativity. "

Councillor Zoe Nicholson, Leader of Lewes District Council, said,

“Seeing these vibrant posters is genuinely uplifting. Their messages from the young children of respect, consideration and kindness shine so brightly at a time when the communities can feel divided.

“My sincere thanks to everyone who has helped to give life to this powerful and heartfelt project.”

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