I CARE - - UK: Anger as far-right demonstration takes place in Grimsby

14.4.17

I CARE - - News - Internet Centre Anti Racism Europe: 8/4/2017- There was anger on the streets of Grimsby, as far-right demonstrators gathered in the town centre in an attempt to make their message heard. Around 40 members of the far-right political group The National Front descended upon the town at lunchtime, after gathering outside The National Fishing Heritage Centre, before parading down Frederick Ward Way and then up Victoria Street. The demonstrators then assembled in the middle of the Riverhead Square, where they attempted to deliver their message to surprised onlookers, many of whom questioned what the group was actually doing in a town like Grimsby. A number of bystanders appeared visibly angry to see the group making speeches in the middle of the town, and a few obscenities were shouted at the group by those who felt that they were unwelcome in Grimsby.

There was a large police presence throughout the event with units ready to respond to any situation that may arise, however everything passed off peacefully, and following the commencement of the organisation's speeches, they were quickly moved on again. National organiser of the National Front Kevin Brown said: "We had thought about places to hold our rally where we may receive as little opposition as possible, and that also has a lot of heritage from the past, and we finally settled on Grimsby." However, many onlookers felt that the group should not be welcome in the town, and didn't want their "hateful" message promoted. Chris Osborne said: "It's disgusting that they are allowed to march here in the town. "My grandfather lost three brothers in the war, and I know that they would hate to see this happening in their town. "We lost thousands of soldiers fighting fascism and they would be disgusted to see a demonstration like this."