'Don't let the racists divide us,' say protesters after anti-illegal immigration demo

Organisers of a counter protest against an anti-illegal immigration march in Doncaster at the weekend have issued a defiant message: “Don’t let the racists divide us.”

Protesters draped in and waving Union flags and St George Cross flags marched from Regent Square and along Hall Gate and High Street yesterday lunchtime chanting “stop the boats,” “send them home” and “deport the lot.”

Meanwhile, a separate counter protest organised by Doncaster Stand Up To Racism was held in Sir Nigel Gresley Square with a number of speakers addressing the crowd.

Strong winds from Storm Boelo impacted numbers on both sides of the argument and police kept the two demonstrations apart as the Sunday lunchtime demonstrations passed off peacefully.

A spokesperson for Doncaster Stand Up To Racism said: “Massive respect to everyone who came out to support our peaceful counter protest against the racists and fascists in terrible weather.

“We had between 80-90 people from all religions , colours and backgrounds.

“Thanks to everyone who spoke and helped in any way. We are the anti racist majority in this City!

“One Donny, One love. Don’t let the racists divide us!”

It was the second such protest and counter protest in recent months.

A similar protest in August saw anti-illegal immigration protesters and counter stop racism demonstrators held marches and protests in the city centre.

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On that occasion, police also kept the two sides apart as flag-waving protesters marched through the city centre from Doncaster Gallery, Library and Museum to Doncaster Minster - with Doncaster Stand Up To Racism organising a counter protest at Clock Corner outside the Frenchgate centre.