Taunton immigration protests take over town centre

Trade unions and local MP Gideon Amos were represented in the stationary counter-demonstration, while the main march against ‘illegal immigration’ processed through town via Vivary Park.

Counter-protestors gathered in the town centre significantly outnumbered the marching group.

Paul Golding, leader of the far-right group Britain First, was seen at the march, as protesters on both sides endured the heavy rain.

Dozens of police officers, including those on horseback, were present in the town centre throughout the day, as the roundabout next to the Market House was temporarily closed to traffic by police cars.

Avon and Somerset Police announced on Friday, August 28, that a 12-hour dispersal zone would be in place in the town centre and a large officer presence to ensure the safety of all protesters and the wider public.

The dispersal power allows the police to direct people to leave an area if they have caused, or are likely to cause, harassment, alarm or distress to others.

Dozens of police, including those on horseback, were in the town centre to keep both protester groups safe. (Image: Ryan Cox @theconcretechronicle)

The main protest march was billed as “anti-illegal immigration” according to organisers’ posts on social media.

Protesters waved Union Jacks and carried signs with messages including “pray for our nation” and “protect our borders”, while chanting slogans calling for mass deportation of migrants.

The march began congregating at Hamilton Park at midday, before moving through town accompanied by dozens of police, and ending at the police headquarters.

Paul Golding was previously set to speak at the last rally organised by the same group on Saturday, July 25, but did not attend.

Counter-protesters gathered in the town centre (Image: Ryan Cox @theconcretechronicle)

Counter-protesters gathered at Market Place on Fore Street, and included a number of political parties and trade union representatives.

Organisers estimate there were approximately 175-220 demonstrators in the counter-protest group throughout the day, outnumbering around 50 anti-immigration protesters.

The group held signs opposing racism and supporting refugees, and waved flags including the EU flag, Palestine flag and LGBT+ pride flag.

Among the counter-protesters speaking to the crowd was Taunton’s MP Gideon Amos.

The Liberal Democrat MP told the Somerset County Gazette: “I'm here for all of those who want to say Taunton is stronger because of those people who have come here and made their lives here, who've come here to care for our loved ones in the NHS. That makes Taunton a stronger place.”