SHOPPERS AND traders deserted Wellington in Telford today as businesses boarded up windows and shut up shop ahead of a planned protest by the English Defence League.

Dozens of police officers were on the streets of Wellington from early this morning, with more expected in the town in the hours leading up to this afternoon’s gathering.

And fear of trouble being sparked by the protest spread beyond Wellington, with traders in nearby Oakengates also boarding up premises and some business in Shifnal closing for the day.

Telford & Wrekin Council staff erected metres of metal fencing around St Patrick’s Church and near the town’s railway station this morning in preparation for the protesters arriving.

A heavily protected police control box was placed in the town centre, with almost every business boarded up or shuttered.

The English Defence League protest was due to take place in Church Street, while at the same time a counter “unity” demonstration was expected to be held at Nailor’s Row car park.

Home Secretary Theresa May yesterday banned a march by the EDL but organisers vowed they would still protest in the town.

Mrs May imposed the ban following a request by the police and Telford & Wrekin Council.

In response to the announcement, a spokesman for the EDL said: “It is a shame that the Home Secretary could not have brought such stringent actions in when towns and cities were being looted and property damaged. It is yet again a classic example of a two-tier system for fear of upsetting people.”

AFC Telford United’s game against Luton Town, which was due to take place today, was called off because of the march.

Speaking today, Wrekin MP Mark Pritchard said: “I hope the assemblies will be peaceful and lawful. The senior officers have assured me that they have sufficient resources to tackle any eventuality if public disorder breaks out. I have accepted these assurances on trust.”