Worcester asylum seekers protest: 'Rally 4 Unity' faces down ‘Patriots of Worcester' demonstration
A demonstration outside a hotel housing asylum seekers was faced down by counter protesters.
Protest groups clashed on Saturday (February 28) in a demonstration outside a hotel housing asylum seekers. The rival protesters faced-off in Worcester city centre with a marched from the Guildhall to the Fownes Hotel taking place just after midday
More than 100 protesters and counter-protesters marched through the city before descending on the hotel. The demonstration included members of the group 'Patriots of Worcester', who said they oppose asylum seekers being housed at the hotel.
Images show them waving Union flags and St George's Crosses as they gathered on one side of a cordon. One banner read: “Illegals not welcome.”
Across the street, a 'Rally 4 Unity' counter-protest formed behind a metal barrier plastered with posters, as music blasted and speakers took turns on the microphone. The two groups chanted back and forth while police officers formed a line outside the hotel to keep them apart.
Smoke was let off during the standoff and horns blared as passing drivers signalled support for either side.
There was an increased police presence with a spokesperson saying they had “plans in place to ensure a proportionate and appropriate response”. Following the protest, a statement was released by Worcester police.
Worcester Local Policing Commander, Superintendent Gareth Morgan, said: “I would like to thank residents, businesses and those visiting the city centre today for their support and understanding while the protests took place. We can confirm both protests have now concluded without any significant issues.”