CHESHIRE East Council has taken a robust stance on the blight of anti-Semitism.

The authority’s cabinet has adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Anti-Semitism.

It follows a notice of motion proposing the adoption by Councillor Stewart Gardiner and seconded by Councillor Martin Deakin at a meeting of full council.

The motion stated: “We call upon this council to adopt formally the definition of anti-Semitism adopted by the IHRA in 2016 and to ensure the equality and diversity policies clearly state there will be no tolerance of anti-Semitism by its officers or elected members.

“Additionally, we call on the council to declare it stands behind all Jewish people living in Cheshire East; together with their family members, in these difficult times for their community.

“Furthermore, we request the director of people be charged with putting in place community cohesion strategies that will help and support any victims of anti-Semitism or other religious intolerances that may manifest themselves in this borough.”

Council leader councillor Rachel Bailey said: “The despicable attack on a Pittsburgh synagogue, in which defenceless members of the Jewish community were gunned down as they prayed, is a shocking reminder of the real threat posed to modern society by anti-Semitism, intolerance and hatred.

“This council is sending out a clear message that anti-Semitism, or discrimination of any kind against any group or individual, is totally unacceptable, has no place in civilised society and will not be tolerated by our officers and elected members.”

Anti-Semitic incidents have reached a record level in the UK, with 1,382 recorded nationwide in 2017.

Councillor Liz Wardlaw said: “Adopting a clear and consistent definition of anti-Semitism provides our residents and visitors with assurance that hate crime of this nature will not be tolerated.

“There is no place for discrimination or hatred in our borough, and we stand behind any individual or community that experiences prejudice, hatred and abuse of any kind.”