A group is urging people to put aside their differences and unite against racism as it reignites a cultural movement born in the 70s.

Rock Against Racism Dorchester has launched to stand against prejudice and discrimination at a grassroots level in Dorset.

It is particularly hoping to combat the issue in Weymouth, which group co-ordinator Kevin Reed claims is “extremely vulnerable” to the far right.

Mr Reed said there were serious issues with a high mortality rate and low social mobility.

He said: “It’s a town that is extremely vulnerable…they will be looking for people to blame. Britain First have been targeting Weymouth in their leafleting. For Weymouth, it’s very urgent that we address these issues.”

The original Rock Against Racism emerged in 1976 in response to a rise in racist incidents across the UK, particularly taking off after a speech by Eric Clapton in which he told crowds that England was “overcrowded” and in danger of becoming "a black colony.”

In 1978, a concert jointly organised by Rock Against Racism and the Anti-Nazi League saw bands such as Steel Pulse and The Clash headline a memorable gig.

Now, Rock Against Racism Dorchester is planning to put on a similar event on a much more local level next month.

Mr Reed said: “I was sitting in my front room and thinking ‘we really need to do something’, and then I realised it was going to have to be me.

“We got this off the ground in August/September last year. We've been networking to get bands on board so we'll have Antigua Joe, The Leggomen, Kipper, and DJ Rev Jack Daniels will play.

"It's a preventative movement, we want to make it clear that the community won't accept race hate or division. The message is about unity and respect for one another.

"We are really hoping to reach out to young people and get them on board, that's very important."

The group were out in Dorchester town centre on Saturday (19) to speak to the public and boost ticket sales for the upcoming gig which they have organised with the support of groups such as Unison and the Dorset Race Equality Council.

Rock Against Racism 2019 will take place at The Corn Exchange in Dorchester on Saturday, February 9 from 7pm until late. Tickets cost £6 and are available to buy from the Dorchester tourist information centre, Reloved, Harmony Music or from Claire's Jewellery Stall in the town.