The classic trait of bullies is that they will target those they perceive as weaker than themselves, ganging up against a minority.

Criminals - generally bullies by a different name - will often target the elderly or the guillible but they blight the lives of everyone: the victims whose lives they shatter and the general public who have to foot the bill for dealing with the thug, the burglar, the drug dealer etc.

But there are others who cause distress in society who tend to escape prosecution but whose activities need to be challenged nonetheless.

Aggressive beggars who target lone women or lie in wait for pensioners leaving the post office are one example. To combat this problem requires a dedicated multi-agency approach. In Middlesbrough we are getting on top of the problem but it has taken a year.

The far right pose a similar problem. They are now sophisticated enough to spread hatred without breaking the law. I regard them as dangerous bullies whose activities need to be countered.

Teesside can be proud of its multi-racial record. After all, Middlesbrough was founded by immigrants, and later arrivals from China, India and Pakistan have enriched the town.

Ideally, we should see each other, not in terms of minority groups, but as fellow citizens of Middlesbrough and the formation of a multi-agency anti-facist group on Teesside this week demonstrates we will not fall into the trap of complacency.

The far right select their target areas for two reasons. The first is publicity: 15 minutes of fame in which they can spread their vile words. Dressed in a smart suit and tie with neat haircut, the image may have changed from the tattooed skinhead days of the National Front but the substance remains the same.

It surprises me how often the media falls for this ploy. Sometimes it appears they give more column inches to these parties than mainstream or independent candidates.

The second reason seats are selected by far right groups is because they think they can win, and this is where mainstream politics and local residents have to take a long hard look at themselves.

The far right frequently target areas where turn-out at local elections is low and just a few hundred votes can win a seat.

That's why all locally-elected councillors should share a common goal of taking their town forward. Yes, there will be differences in opinion as to how this is done but there should also be a lot of common ground where progress can be made.

People have to be encouraged to take part in the local decision-making process, whether through community groups, voluntary bodies or by standing themselves - as independents if necessary.

But it is also important that local people take a lead to protect their communities from being split apart by the politics of hate. The best way to do this is to use your vote.

The recent biographies chronicling the life of the late widow of Oswald Mosley demonstrate how, just 60 years ago, the facist movement in Britain made frightening strides.

It was defeated then and will be again but, to paraphrase, we should remember that for evil to flourish requires only that good men and women do nothing.

Published: 05/09/2003