AN AFGHAN war hero who has rebuilt his life in Inverclyde and now helps refugees across the country has paid tribute to the local community for their 'overwhelming' support following the recent outbreaks of racial violence.

Community leader Bilal Wardak, a former police chief and senior advisor to the US and Britain in his home country, met with Police Scotland Chief Constable Jo Farrell earlier this week.

The dad-of-two recently told the Tele how he was forced to flee Afghanistan with his family when the USA pullled out and the country fell to the Taliban again in 2021.

Since then the 39-year-old has been awarded a British Empire Medal for his bravery and has settled in Port Glasgow, where he has become involved with the local community council.

Now working with the Scottish Refugee Council (SRC), Bilal was among those invited for talks at a national level following the far right riots in other parts of the UK, which have spread fear and alarm among many.

Speaking after the meeting Bilal said: "It’s always a pleasure to highlight the wonderful community here in Inverclyde.

"I am happy to say that I haven't noticed any negative changes in behaviour here. On the contrary, we continue to feel embraced and respected by those around us. 

Bilal Wardak with Police Scotland Chief Constable Jo Farrell  (Image: contributed)

"The strong community bonds we have in Inverclyde are rooted in mutual respect and support. Those are not easily shaken by the negative actions of a few individuals who choose violence and hate.

"Our roots in this community run deep, and we live here with respect, love, prosperity, and safety. 

"Many members of the refugee communities across Scotland have reached out to me over the past few days, seeking reassurance.

"I’ve encouraged them to remain positive and to trust in the people of Scotland, as well as the police and local authorities. 

"We’ve received unwavering support from high-ranking officials throughout the UK and Scotland, as well as from community members, neighbours, and friends who have all gone above and beyond to stand with us."

Hero Bilal worked with the Afghanistan government, as well as with the EU, the US and Britain as a senior advisor, and on a number of occasions intervened to save colleagues' lives when the security situation was at its worst.

Following a recent incident of Islamaphobic grafitti in his home town, the people of Inverclyde united to condemn such actions.

Bilal says that his fellow Afghans and those from other countries appreciate the warmth they have found here.

He added: "Having endured decades of conflict, violence, and hate, none of us want to see such things in our new home here in Scotland. 

"We cherish the peace and the sense of belonging that we have found."

Bilal's work as a community development officer with the SRC sees him the country to support people who have come here under resettlement schemes.

He recently spoke about his experiences in the Scottish Parliament, and is also keen to highlight the message from the Ms Farrell for people to be responsible about their use of sharing social media content, which has fuelled the tensions.

Bilal added: "During my meeting with the senior leadership of Police Scotland, I was reassured by their commitment to stand with us. 

"They made it clear that there is no place in our communities for hate, violence, and conflict.

"The response from the local people in the past week has been overwhelmingly positive.

"The anti-racism marches were a powerful reminder that the silent majority is ready to stand up for what is right, and this has been incredibly heartening."

Bilal Wardak pictured with Stuart McMillan MSP at the Scottish Parliament. (Image: contributed)

Inverclyde MSP Stuart McMillan said: “On Wednesday I met with senior police officers regarding the rumours around local protests, and have been assured that they continue to closely monitor the situation to ensure any potential for violence or disorder in Scotland is identified quickly and responded to immediately.

“The people of Inverclyde have extended a hand of friendship to our growing New Scots community, and as a result they’ve integrated well and are bringing new ideas and perspectives to the area.

"This is positive as we need more people to come and live and work locally if we’re to tackle our long-standing population decline.

“My message to everyone both locally and those who think they can come to Greenock and spread their hatred and violence: racism and fascism is not welcome, and will not be tolerated in Inverclyde.”