PUBLIC officials are sometimes accused of being over-respectful of Britain’s religious diversity.

But you certainly couldn’t level that charge at some people at Bournemouth council.

Oclay Kurulay, a practising Muslim who leaves his shoes in the hallway outside his flat, was astonished when they were all taken away as a fire hazard.

His tenancy agreement says he shouldn’t leave “items” in the hall – but not unreasonably, he thought that clause may have been intended for bigger objects than shoes.

Anyone who has had to battle with their local council to take away fly-tipped waste from around a communal wheelie bin will see an irony here.

Meanwhile, Bournemouth council says Mr Kurulay should leave his shoes in his own private hallway.

Fair enough, but would it not have been common sense to knock on his door or leave a friendly note?