Police have issued a warning that any disorder or crime committed during a protest march in Blackpool this weekend will not be tolerated.
The “Blackpool: No justice, No peace” march and demonstration is being organised by the UK Independence Party (UKIP) and will see participants gathering in the promenade area around midday on Saturday.
Lancashire Constabulary will have a presence in the town during the event, which is expected to be a protest against migrants, and say they will be ready if any disorder or criminal activity occurs.
Organisers say the stated aim of the event is “to demand justice for our children, our elderly and our veterans”.
A Lancashire Police spokesman said: “We are aware of a planned protest in Blackpool this weekend and we are engaging with the organisers to facilitate a peaceful event.
“Our priority is to balance the lawful right to protest with preventing serious disruption and everyone’s right to go about their lives without fear or risk of harm.
“However, if anyone commits a criminal offence at a protest or undertakes disorder, they will be dealt with fairly but firmly and within the law.”
Blackpool South MP is aware of the event and pointed to a previous statement he issued when a similar march was staged in the town earlier this year.
He stated at that time: “Racists and far-right agitators are not welcome in Blackpool. Our town is proud, diverse and compassionate and we will not allow extremists to use our communities as a playground for their hate.
“Over the past year or more we’ve had to watch the constant harassment of vulnerable residents under the guise of ‘peaceful protest’ alongside disturbing far-right activity unfold both in our town and online.
“This moment calls for calm, unity and common sense. We must not allow hatred to drown out the real problems facing people in Blackpool – ones this government is working hard to address. The far right feeds off fear and misinformation. We will instead focus on facts, compassion and security.”
UKIP is currently led by Nick Tenconi and although it is considered a Far Right party, its leadership has denied accusations of racism.
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