SCHOOL children and teachers showed their support in embracing pride and unity as Bradford celebrated One Nation One Britain (OBON) Day.

OBON was founded in June 2013 by former West Yorkshire Police Inspector Kash Singh and a celebratory day is held each year on the last Friday in June.

His role in the police saw him put in charge of the Manningham district of Bradford, where riots had broken out in 1995 and 2001.

Bringing the diverse Manningham community together, he made the area one of the safest districts in Bradford, with a crime rate that fell dramatically.

After retiring from the force Mr Singh decided to focus on pulling the people of the country together to create a sense of national unity and pride. Since the inception of OBON tens of thousands of people across the country have participated to support the cause.

Kash Singh said “No one person must ever be the subject of any form of hate and we want to bring out the best in all people so that we are all working in the interest of our country and all its people to create a feel good factor and a strong shared sense of belonging for all."

Mr Singh said almost 100 schools signed up to celebrate the OBON Day across West Yorkshire.

It has also garnered support from the politicians.

Philip Davies, MP for Shipley said: “One Britain One Nation plays a pivotal role in bringing communities together in a common pride in being British. I am proud to support Kash and OBON in the great work they do.”

Keighley MP John Grogan added: “It is great that so many Keighley and Bradford schools are taking part in literally flying the flag for our country. It does not mean we support the same football, rugby or cricket teams or eat the same food but it does mean we value our democracy and society”

John Grogan MP added:

While Naz Shah, MP for Bradford West said: “One Nation One Britain Day is an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of all Britons."

West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Burns-Williamson said: "Community cohesion has always been a key theme in my police and crime plan for West Yorkshire. We all have a responsibility to encourage inclusivity and build relationships between communities which strengthens our joint resilience and "I am very happy to throw my support behind OBON Day which is a great initiative."

Mr Singh concluded: "I think everyone was overwhelmed with the creativity involved in championing the message of oneness.

"It was humbling to see the passion our teachers display to bring out the best in all our children."