I AM an immigrant, but I can say for the decades that I have lived in Britain and now regard it as home, I was never abused nor told to go back home, except by one man in Rodborough, who feels that my presence in Britain is anathema.

Britain has always been a warm, friendly place where most people tolerate those around them.

So it has been a shock to see the vile abuse, xenophobia and racial attitudes over the last few weeks.

People who have lived here for years and, like me, regard Britain as their home, are being told to go back to where they came from, have been shouted at in public, called racist names and in some cases, attacked by local thugs.

Many are now frightened to leave their homes because of this abuse and I believe it is vital that the ordinary decent, tolerant people must stand up for those frightened, nervous people and show them what I believe is the true face of this country.

Britain is known throughout the world as a nation that cares for the vulnerable, and the victims of war and persecution.

In the thirties, the Kinder Transport from Nazi Germany, which saved the lives of so many children who found a new home in Britain, was a wonderful act of care and compassion.

In the fifties we welcomed Hungarians who had fled their country after the invasion by Russia.

In the 1970s, thousands of people fled Idi Amin’s Uganda and found a home here.

Over the years Britain has welcomed vulnerable people from around the world, and their presence in this country has enriched it, the diversity of our nation being one the characteristics that make this country so special.

So let us speak out against the ugliness which is beginning to define us. Let us go out of our way to greet those who have come here hoping to find a new, happy life.

Let us show those who are so spiteful, nasty and hateful that Britain is a country which rejects racism and xenophobia.

Brian Oosthuysen

Stroud