Britain First leader to attend weekend Shrewsbury rally

The leader of a far right political party is to visit Shrewsbury at the weekend to attend a rally in the town.

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Paul Golding, a former BNP councillor and leader of Britain First - a far right political party - is to speak at a rally in the Quarry Park on Saturday afternoon ahead of a planned march through the town centre.

The rally on Saturday is being organised by Raise the Flags Shrewsbury Plus, a campaign group that has organised previous marches during 2026.

A counter-protest has also been organised.

Golding’s presence in the town has been slammed by anti-racist groups, who have branded the political leader, who has numerous criminal convictions, as someone who “thrives on hate”.

Mike Veric, from Shropshire Stand Up To Racism, said: “Shropshire Stand Up To Racism is appalled that a well-known fascist has been invited to speak in the town.

“Paul Golding’s criminal record speaks for itself. This is a man who thrives on hate and division.

“Shrewsbury stands at a crossroads – are we going to allow fascists to march through our streets chanting racist slurs and giving Nazi salutes unopposed? Or will the community stand together and say enough is enough? The impact of these hate marches on Shrewsbury residents, businesses, and the tourism industry – is becoming increasingly intolerable.”