IN MY COLUMN this week, I want to pick up on the subject of the new hate crime legislation which went live on April 1.

Rather than dwell on the finer points of the legislation, which are already the subject of countless column inches and have invoked debate up and down the country, I want to focus on the spirit and intended use of the legislation, which is to discourage and criminalise offensive and derogatory language and behaviour, not to see people criminalised for innocent beliefs and views they hold.

If you should take away one thing from this column, it is this: if a reasonable person would find what you are saying or doing offensive then it is best left unsaid or undone.

It is perhaps as much a reflection on our society that this legislation has been seen as necessary and perhaps highlights the intolerance that exists at times within various communities. East Lothian is not immune to this and, in partnership with you all, we will seek to uphold the new law.

We want to live in a society which is tolerant and accepting of the diverse backgrounds and beliefs which we all hold, and as police officers, we have a purpose in helping to shape the society in which we live by dealing with the small minority who cannot abide by the law; however, this is not solely the role of the police.

Everyone within a community has a responsibility to shape their community and contribute to the greater good, whether this is by good parenting, being a good neighbour, volunteering in the community or through countless other ways. The point is, we all have our part to play and I would encourage you all to reflect on the role you play in making your community a better place and supporting those in need.

I realise this may have been heavy reading but I make no apology for highlighting it, as the importance of everyone playing their part in creating a more tolerant society cannot be overstated.

On a lighter note and on the subject of volunteering, I was pleased to attend the anniversary celebrations of Musselburgh Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets on Saturday. It was undoubtedly a community event and many of the visiting dignitaries remarked on how proud the town of Musselburgh should be to have such a flourishing group of young people, ably led by Commanding Officer Chris Gay and his team. Giving young people the chance to gain new experiences and skills is invaluable, and it was evident that many people have benefitted from their experience in the cadets.