Dismay over BNP's White Tigers defence group plan for Shropshire
The British National Party wants to set up self-defence classes for youths in towns across Shropshire in a bid to combat alleged attacks on white teenagers, it says.
The party claims the 'White Tigers' will teach youths how to defend themselves and 'educate' them about grooming and 'pack attack' gangs.
The group will be the first of its kind established by the far right party in Britain.
Richard Ewels, for West Mercia Police, today said the force was 'aware' of the move but did not wish to comment further.
According to the BNP, self-defence sessions are set to be launched in the new year. However, it is not yet known where they will be held, with officials claiming the sessions are still at the planning stage.
A BNP statement says: "Grooming gangs have been operating in Shropshire for years and reports of racist attacks on white youths are increasing in the area. We doubt that certain sections of the Establishment will receive this news gladly – well that's just too bad."
Party officials have claimed the group will have no political role and have insisted it will not be used to teach youngsters to fight.
The website claims 'experienced instructors' and 'ex-military professionals' have offered their time for free.
Councillor Pauline Dee, an independent representing Wem on Shropshire Council, said: "There are plenty of groups across Shropshire where young people can learn self-defence without the political bias."
