SCHOOLS in Ilkley and across the district will be uniting to celebrate an event promoting tolerance.

One Britain One Nation (OBON) Day takes place in the summer.

A launch was held in Bradford, beginning the countdown to the June 29 event.

OBON was founded by former West Yorkshire Police inspector, Kash Singh.

He served with the force for more than two decades, working across Bradford and Leeds.

Mr Singh said: “We all need to live in a society where everyone has the opportunity to showcase their pride, passion and love for a United Kingdom once more.

“OBON wants to utilise the strength of all our people to champion the values that we have in common to promote a peaceful and respectful coexistence.

“This day truly inspires all our children to love their nation by showcasing and forging a sense of togetherness based on their love, pride and passion for our great country.

“Schools across West Yorkshire will be celebrating the day of pride and unity with Union flags and bunting, while championing the values that ultimately foster the spirit of togetherness where everyone feels a strong and shared sense of belonging.

“It is tremendous that we have this opportunity to put Yorkshire on the map for such a worthwhile reason.”

The launch took place at the Great Hall, in the Richmond Building at the University of Bradford.

Invited guests heard speeches from various people including cricketing legend Ryan Sidebottom, the pastor of the New Testament Church of God in Leeds Bishop Tony Parry, director of children’s services at Bradford Council Michael Jameson, and Julia Robinson, general secretary of the Independent Schools Council.

Mr Jameson said: “OBON builds on the great work being carried out across West Yorkshire promoting tolerance and understanding and valuing difference and diversity.

“These are key attributes our young people require to positively shape a prosperous and inclusive Britain.”

All schools are being urged to get involved in the initiative, which is building on the success of an OBON Day held last year.

As well as founding OBON – a non-political and non-religious organisation – Mr Singh is its chief executive.

He is also founder and chairman of the British Indian Association.

During his police career he gained extensive experience working with people from all backgrounds.

His service included lead inspector in the Manningham area of Bradford, which had been the scene of violent riots. Within 18 months of taking-up the post, he had engaged with thousands of people.

And Manningham became one of the lowest crime-rate areas in the Bradford district.

Mr Singh received several accolades for his work.

He left the force in 2012.

“It’s my desire to utilise my experience and dedicate my life to a cause that is bigger than myself,” he added.

“We hope to see cohesion across all communities, where no-one is made to suffer or is left behind, regardless of their race, religion, skin colour or background.

“We envisage a country where by working together we can eliminate ‘hatred and intolerance’ from our society.”

For more details about OBON, visit onebritainonenation.com.