MUSLIMS in the North-East have pleaded for unity in the aftermath of the tragedy.
With feelings running high, it is feared that some could use the attack as an excuse for reprisals against the Muslim community.
One leader said: "We are calling for unity in this very difficult period. I'm very proud to say that, in Teesside and Middlesbrough, we are a united community.
"We are really, really upset about what has happened. We are sad about the loss of lives, irrespective of whether they are British, American, Jews or Indian."
Nadeem Ahmad, regional manager of the North-East Consortium for Asylum Support Services, said he had not heard of any reprisals in the North-East.
He said: "Feelings are running high in relation to the terrible disaster and our hearts go out to the bereaved. We are keeping an eye on things."
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