09:30 - 30 October 2007

Sikhs from Derby were travelling to London today to lobby Parliament.

More than 100 MPs and Lords have been asked to listen to the concerns of Sikhs from across the UK.

Around 15 Sikhs from in and around Derby are expected to attend.

The Sikhs will make a number of requests to the government, including a Code of Practice giving them the right to display the articles of their faith, such as the turban and the ceremonial sword, during day-to-day activities.

Following the lobby, a candlelit vigil will be held to mark the 23rd anniversary of the anti-Sikh pogroms in India.

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FIREFIGHTERS are urging Hindu, Jain and Sikh communities celebrating Diwali next Friday to follow simple fire safety guidelines.

Candle fires increase by more than a third during Diwali and over 20 per cent of deaths caused by candles occur at this time.

Mark Cashin, Cheshire's deputy chief fire officer responsible for community risk reduction, said: "It is ironic and tragic that during periods of celebration there is a dramatic increase in the number of fires among many communities.

"It's often that safety comes second to celebration.

"Our aim is to make communities more aware of their surroundings and ensure that they are actively thinking about fire safety in the home."

The Fire Service is asking people to ensure they have a working smoke alarm fitted in their homes.

To book a free Home Safety Assessment including the free fitting of smoke alarms call 0800 3890053.

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