Ten arrested at town centre protest march

POLICE made ten arrests at a far-right march in Rotherham town centre.

Between 100 and 150 members of more than 20 right-wing and fascist groups, including the National Front, marched on Saturday, claiming to be protesting against Rotherham Borough Council's attempts to get marches banned and restrictions imposed.

Rotherham Unite Against Fascism and Celebrate and Support Rotherham staged a unity vigil addressed by faith leaders, trade unionists and councillors in All Saints’ Square at the same time.

Police said the arrests included a range of offences including breach of the peace, drunk and disorderly and possession with intent to supply class B drugs.

A number of dispersal notices were also issued.

There was no damage and no injuries however two people attended hospital with breathing difficulties.

Gold Commander Chief Supt Jason Harwin said: “It has been another challenging day for Rotherham and a challenging day for all of the officers involved.

“We are acutely aware of the impact such marches have on the residents of Rotherham.

“While we will respect everyone's right to a peaceful protest, today demonstrates that when that protest stops being peaceful and moves into criminal activity we will take the necessary action.”

A message on the Magna Carta Liberatum Facebook page said afterwards: “Successful demonstration despite police provocation by attacking women, thus people being baited into violence by these oppressive system lackeys.

“Thanks to all that attended — we will be back!”

Around 40 people took part in a unity vigil before the protesters arrived at the Town Hall.

Liam Harron from the group Celebrate and Support Rotherham said: “We’re offering a voice of hope and not a voice of despair, which is what this group that have come to Rotherham are offering.

“So we are rejecting their hate and standing up for the people of Rotherham.”

Cllr Eve Rose, speaking with Cllr Taiba Yasseen in a demonstration of unity, said: “Those people marching are racists and fascists who want to stir up hate and division and do not represent this town. We are for love and unity.”