THE seeds of the violence that tore through Lozells during two nights of rioting were scattered by careless words and a readiness to believe the worst.
Tension mounted after rumours spread that a black girl had been raped by a gang of Asian men.
The story turned out to be unfounded, but sparked angry protests and, as moods hardened, there was an explosion of lawlessness that led to 275 offences being committed in the area.
The vast majority of citizens, of course, played no part in the criminality that erupted.
But as is always the case, the opportunity was seized by thugs and malcontents to indulge in an orgy of violence, destruction and dishonesty.
Since then, great strides have been made to heal the wounds that were caused during the troubles in October 2005.
The court case, in which five men and a youth were convicted in connection with the violence, is another step forward in the rebuilding process.
But the lesson is simple.
Pay no heed to hotheads and rumour-mongers whose poisonous words can cause untold damage.
Trust, goodwill and respect are needed for communities to prosper.
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