A candle of hope was lit this week with the issuing of a statement by three workers at one of the main mosques in Keighley, who say they consider it a duty to speak out and work practically to bring about positive change.

In an unrelated move, a bid was made to have the voice of the male Asian youth heard -- again with a welcome for dialogue to map a way forward.

For some weeks we have carried extensive reports and comments calling for the voice of the silent majority to be heard in the wake of the BNP winning seats.

Little has happened, apart from the usual ping-pong of exchanges in the letters column.

This week the trio from the Medina Mosque sent a message to the Keighley News, pointing out that we have carried MP Ann Cryer's critique of the BNP and Asian community's lack of voice or concern; some Asian's critique of Mrs Cryer's statements; and the BNP's critique of everyone. Their opinion, they believe, is that of the silent majority of Muslims and Asians and they have decided to express it.

The importance of their decision to issue their views and engage in dialogue should not be underestimated. It could well be a turning point in the future of community relations in Keighley.

On Sunday the doors of their mosque will be open to all residents of Keighley to visit and begin the process of dialogue, to foster diversity and understanding.

The trio say they will warmly open their doors and hearts to all of the people of Keighley, including those who voted for the BNP and the BNP councillors.

In his letter, Kabeer Hanif makes one other vital point when he says the Asian community is far more tolerant then we actually think. Let the dialogue begin.