LOCAL Jewish people are bearing the brunt of a sharp rise in the number of anti-Semitic attacks.

A new report says that the number of abusive incidents against Jews last year rose across Britain by 40 per cent compared to 2003, up to 532.

Almost a quarter happened in the north west, with the vast majority (94) taking place in Greater Manchester, which has the region's highest proportion of Jewish residents.

Lib Dem MEP Chris Davies described the attacks as "foul and inexcusable", adding: "I have often disagreed with the policies of the Israeli government but British citizens of Jewish faith are entitled to our respect and protection from stupid, Fascist thugs."

Mr Davies recently clashed with his German counterparts who called for a Europe-wide ban on Nazi symbols following their use by Prince Harry at a fancy dress party.

"To ban symbols like this would serve no practical purpose and would simply give their covert use a cult status," he said.