RYELANDS Community Association has resigned en masse following a decision by the police and the council to withdraw their support for a mischief night disco next to Mal Hussain's shop.

The authorities are thought to be concerned that their support for the event, which aims to reduce tension on the estate during the notorious night, could be perceived as racist.

Following an emergency meeting, the disco is now scheduled to take place at Ryelands Primary School, which the Friends of Mal Hussain feel is a more appropriate venue.

But Ryelands Community Association is said to be upset at the decision.

"The residents have had so much bad publicity that they are beginning to feel disillusioned. They feel that everyone is backing away from them," said Cllr Carol Broad.

"The authorities have to tread very carefully because they don't want to be seen to be supporting what could be perceived as a racist event. It's a very delicate situation but what we don't need is any increase in tension on the estate."

In previous years the community disco, with support from the council and police, has helped prevent further attacks on Mal's shop. But the Friends believe that it would be more appropriate and sensitive to use the nearby school.

A spokesman for the Friends said: "It has been agreed by all parties that the event should go ahead at the school for security reasons. There are regular events held at the school, it is a much more suitable venue, and there is no need for it to take place outside the shop?"

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.