‘Race Against Hate’ event at Sobell Leisure Centre in Aberdare and at Newbridge Fields in Bridgend.

Last week we hosted our third ‘Race Against Hate’ event at Sobell Leisure Centre in Aberdare and at Newbridge Fields in Bridgend. Led by South Wales Police’s Community Safety Partnership teams, the initiative continues to deliver vital early intervention work, helping to build more cohesive and inclusive communities at a time when such engagement has never been more important.

The event brought together around 150 primary schools and 3,500 pupils from across Merthyr, Rhondda Cynon Taf and Bridgend to run in unity against hatred. It wasn’t just a run – it was an event that demonstrated the collective power of our communities.

We were proud to be joined by colleagues from South Wales Police Headquarters, the Welsh Ambulance Service and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, who engaged directly with children and delivered important safety and educational messages throughout the day.

Inspector Richard Gardiner said: “We were thrilled to have organised our third and biggest version of ‘Race Against Hate’ event where local schools and the community came together and demonstrated their commitment to fighting hate.

“We welcomed around 3,500 children to the event along with teachers, parents, and family members. The theme ‘Race Against Hate’ was to educate and raise awareness around the treatment of everyone in our community regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, age, and disability.

Delivering an event of this scale is no small undertaking, and I am incredibly proud of the officers, staff, volunteers and partner agencies who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make it such a success. Their commitment ensured not only a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone attending, but also helped strengthen relationships between South Wales Police, local communities and the next generation.

Finally, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all the businesses, schools, partners and volunteers whose support made these events possible. Their enthusiasm and commitment continue to make Race Against Hate one of the most positive and impactful community engagement initiatives delivered by South Wales Police.”

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