Stand Up To Racism march to take place in Barnstaple

A Stand Up To Racism March will be taking place in Barnstaple on Saturday, September 2.

The march and rally have been called in response to 'hate filled' literature that the Britain First party has been distributing in Barnstaple in recent weeks, including leaflets being placed on cars parked in the Cattle Market car park.

The purpose of this march and rally is to show that there is unity among the population of North Devon on the issue of racism and fascism, including faith groups, political organisations and other community groups.

Stand Up To Racism North Devon's Dave Clinch said: "The event will be a celebratory rebuke to the Britain First party which is trying to sow division within our community. Placards and banners are welcome.

"Britain First targets Muslims. Barnstaple Town council includes two Muslim councillors. Many people from Muslim backgrounds live and work in North Devon.

"Britain First targets Refugees and Asylum Seekers with their hatred. For example many people seeking asylum are escaping war torn countries, who should be integrated into communities to find useful work, instead of waiting years for their cases to be heard. Families have been settled in North Devon.

"Britain First was set up by former members of the British National Party. Members of its leadership have convictions for hate crimes including ‘religiously aggravated harassment’ after an attack on a Muslim owned café. Thomas Mair who murdered MP Jo Cox shouted 'Britain First' before stabbing her.

"Britain First wants to remove our rights to religious freedom, and to a broad based culturally diverse education. The march and rally have been called to show that the majority of people reject the ideas of this hate filled group."

The march and rally are supported by North Devon & Torridge TUC and National Education Union, Devon Division.