An Essex imam has said the Islamic community had been “disturbed” after a letter calling for violence against Muslims was sent to a mosque in Colchester - and three others across the country.

Habib Ahmad, the Imam of Colchester Mosque in Priory Street, has also praised the wider community for its response following the hate-mail, which was posted on Wednesday.

The letter, which was also sent to three mosques in Kent, made references to racist mass-murderers and contained a suspicious white powder, which was later found to be non-harmful.

Iman Ahmad said: “Although we were disturbed to receive such a letter, we are very much looking to continue working hard to build bridges with the wider community and welcome people from all or no faiths to benefit from Colchester Mosque”.

“The response from our neighbours and Colchester community has been really touching and we have received many letters, emails and phone calls of consolation.

“We also would like to thank Essex Police for their brilliant response and continuous reassurance which has helped us through this worrying time”.

In a message posted on Facebook yesterday, Essex’s Chief Supt Ewen Wilson said officers were working with faith leaders in Colchester.

“The incident, although rare, is very serious and is being investigated as a hate crime,” he added.

“Essex Police will not accept or tolerate hate crimes in our communities, be it online or in the street.

“We urge people across all faiths and backgrounds to be vigilant and report any information that can assist our dedicated investigative team.

Officers are carrying out extra patrols around the mosque and working with community groups, faith leaders and advisory groups.

“There are now 39 Hate Incident Reporting Centres across the county and 450 people from the public and voluntary sector, who have been fully trained as hate crime ambassadors, building on our commitment to tackle hate crime and support victims,” Chief Supt Wilson added.

Anyone with information is asked to call Essex Police quoting incident 587 of 02/05 or online by visiting Essex Police.

People can also call Crimestoppoers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or at the Hate Incident Reporting Centres.