THERE was mixed reaction to the publication of the report on the streets of Oldham.

Some knew little of the probe, others thought it would do nothing to help rebuild the town. Many refused to discuss it.

But there was a feeling that problems were not insurmountable.

Part-time teacher Mohammed Basit, 28, from Chadderton said: ''The recommendations can work if the people of Oldham work together.

''The people need more jobs and education and young people from different racial groups need to come together. There is hope here, people just need to see what's going on around them and work together.''

Mohammed's sentiments were echoed by Irene Boardman, 56, from Chadderton, who said: ''My own finding is that there is good and bad in everybody regardless of their race.

Future in youth

''The real future of this town is up to the young people. They will have to learn how to give and take on both sides.

''I didn't always like Asian people, but when I began working with them I felt ashamed. I realised they were the same as me. Many are still my friends.''

But Tracy Collins, 34, from Royton, told the M.E.N. she thought there was no hope. ''My daughter is of mixed race and some people have called her names before now.

''I don't think things will get better after the report because I know people on both sides. It is a very worrying situation.''

HGV driver Eric Mingham, 48, from Delph, was certain there had to be an answer to the town's strife. ''Everybody knows about the problems in Oldham, but this is the first time anyone has tried to give us some answers.''