Christian leaders of all denominations throughout Bradford have issued statements saying that support for the British National Party's divisive political message is incompatible with Christian religious beliefs and practice.

More than 133 leaders of Anglican, Roman Catholic, Methodist, Lutheran, Moravian and various Non-Conformist organisations in Bradford and Aireborough have put their names to the statements.

The statements differ slightly in that the one from 11 churches in Aireborough acknowledges the BNP's democratic right as a legal political party to field 400 candidates in the joint council and Euro elections, which close on June 10.

"However, we believe it is vital that they do not become accepted as part of normal political life. We affirm that membership or any form of support for organisations such as the British National Party is incompatible with Christian discipleship," it says.

The statement - signed by 122 Christians in the Bradford diocese, including the Bishop of Bradford, the Right Reverend David James - expresses deep concern that the BNP is fielding candidates for seats on both Bradford Council and the European Parliament.

"As Christians we deplore all attempts to divide our society on race and asylum issues. We seek to follow the example of Christ, who calls us to love our neighbours as ourselves," the Bradford statement says.

The Rev George Moffat, Team Rector of Manningham, who once a year preaches before the Queen, said: "These clergy from a wide variety of churches and congregations across the Metropolitan district, indicate by their signatures the strength of their concern.

"They are in daily contact with a wide variety of local people and along with them affirm the priority of the gospel message.

"They are united in their understanding that the core messages of the BNP are contrary to their understanding of God and God's love for all creation."

Earlier this week Christians at four Wyke churches sent a letter to their parishioners condemning the policies of the BNP.

Ken Evans, minister at Lower Wyke Moravian Church, told the T&A: "It seems that the BNP is focusing on areas just on the periphery of multi-racial areas, and on the problems they cause. They are trying to stir up unrest."

None of the leaders advises Christians which party to support, merely to use their vote and vote only for candidates whose policies "reflect a spirit of inclusive welcome".