RELIGIOUS leaders in Hampshire have called for calm following the outcome of the EU vote.

Prior to the historic vote religious leaders from the UK’s faith communities opposed Brexit, and argued the EU is important to preserve peace, fight poverty and tackle the migration crisis.

They included likes of former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams, Bharti Tailer who is executive director of the Hindu Forum of Eurpoe and assistant general secretary of the Muslim Council of Great Britain Miqdaad Versi.

In Hampshire Bishop of Winchester the Right Reverent Tim Dakin has called for calm from both sides.

The Rt Rev Tim Dakin, said: “Yesterday’s referendum has concluded with a decisive democratic outcome, coupled with a hugely contrasting range of emotions.

“The result follows a period where people across our region, like the rest of the country, have engaged in passionate debate about the values which shape our nation.

“A range of views have been expressed by people throughout the Diocese of Winchester and, as we move forward, I hope that we can come together by focusing on what unites rather than divides us.

“As Christians, we believe in the importance of sharing love and solidarity with our neighbours, at home and abroad, and our mission to live by these values remains unchanged.

“My thoughts and prayers now are also with the politicians who will need to lead the country through this new chapter in our relationship with Europe.

“I pray that they will act with courage and wisdom in the best interests of the British people over the coming weeks, months and years.”

Secretary of Southampton Hebrew Congregation, Professor Tim Sluckin, said he was “disappointed” by the outcome, but called for unity.

Professor Sluckin, said: “I think most of us would feel disappointed, we of course have recent ancestors who are immigrants and most of us feel that we are turning face to the wall.”

“I think it is important that the country unites, a united country is good for social cohesion and good for the Jews, nonetheless I am disappointed with the outcome.