THE mother of murdered teenager Anthony Walker yesterday urged unionists to help instil positive policies to eradicate racism.

Gee Walker addressed the 141st TUC annual Congress which is being held this week at the BT Convention Centre.

Mrs Walker was given a standing ovation after her speech, and then around 1,000 gathered on the steps of the Arena and Convention Centre to hold a silent vigil in protest against racism and the BNP.

She spoke following a debate about the BNP and racism: “No- one can tell me that racism does not exist because I am living proof, what happened to Anthony confirmed that,” she told delegates.

Anthony was 18 when he was killed in a racist attack in Huyton, in July, 2005.

“What happened to my son was the result of extreme racism. I know that if he was white he would still be alive today.

“I appeal to the hearts of everyone here today to think about the positive and instil positive policies not just lip service.

“Families should be the cornerstone and should be the bedrock in which our children should be raised.

“Somehow family has lost its meaning and tradition and its values are diminishing ever faster.

“Forgiveness is a powerful tool, it’s a weapon I use to overcome the hurt filled world and what happened to Anthony.