'This is a deliberately provocative move': Shrewsbury MP speaks out over far-right leader at town rally

Shrewsbury’s MP has issued a plea for “unity” ahead of a far-right political leader’s planned appearance at a town rally.

Tomorrow - Saturday, October 31, will see the latest in a series of what have become regular demonstrations organised by the Shrewsbury Raise the Flags group.

Organisers say the gathering, which is set to assemble at 12.30pm at the Quarry, will feature Paul Golding, leader of the far-right party, Britain First.

A counter demonstration has been arranged by Stand up to Racism Shropshire and Telford.

The protest is sixth to take place in the town in recent months - with previous demonstrations leading to road closures to allow the group to march through the town centre.

Ahead of the Saturday’s demonstration Shrewsbury’s Labour MP, Julia Buckley, described the attendance of Paul Golding as “deliberately provocative” and urged the town’s residents to “stand together” and show the town as a “welcoming, inclusive and positive place”.

She said: “In recent months, a number of public demonstrations and campaigns relating to the flying of flags in the town have generated significant local debate and, at times, heightened tensions between different groups.

“Another one of these controversial events is planned for this weekend - this time set to involve Paul Golding, a former British National Party councillor and leader of the far-right party Britain First.

“This is a deliberately provocative move by people who have nothing to do with Shrewsbury. And Mr Golding’s involvement has rightly been slammed by anti-racist group Shropshire Stand Up to Racism.

“I believe it’s time for the people of Shrewsbury to now stand together to ensure that our town remains a welcoming, inclusive and positive place in which respectful dialogue can flourish and where everyone can feel safe and secure.”

The MP said she would be looking to bring a number of Shrewsbury groups together for discussions about the town’s future.

She said: “While people may hold differing views on these issues, I believe there is a shared interest in ensuring that Shrewsbury remains welcoming, inclusive and positive.

“So I’m approaching organisations and individuals who play an important role in the life of our town, I would like to bring together representatives from local government, business, faith communities, voluntary organisations, community groups, and other stakeholders to discuss how we can collectively strengthen community relationships and develop a constructive narrative about Shrewsbury's future.

“As part of these discussions, I would like us to consider establishing a programme of ongoing engagement activities, including: An annual civic lecture focused on community cohesion, understanding and shared values; An annual interfaith walk through the town, potentially linking key places of worship, celebrating Shrewsbury's diverse heritage; Additional opportunities for communities to meet, learn from one another, and develop stronger connections throughout the year.”

She added: “I am very conscious that those around the table may not always agree on every issue. The purpose of the meeting is not to achieve uniformity of opinion, but to create a constructive space where people can listen, learn and work together on areas of common concern and shared ambition for our town.

“Shrewsbury has a long history of civic pride, community spirit and neighbourliness. I believe that by bringing together those who care deeply about our town, we can build stronger relationships, improve understanding, and ensure that future discussions are conducted in a positive and respectful way.”

Ahead of tomorrow’s demonstration West Mercia Police warned people to expect an increased presence, and for it to be busier than usual.

Inspector Ingrid Tozer, who leads the Safer Neighbourhood Team in Shrewsbury, said: “Shrewsbury is a fantastic town with plenty to offer those visiting, and due to several events, we are anticipating a higher than usual footfall on Saturday.

“If you are planning on coming into the town centre, please make sure you plan ahead and allow plenty of time for your journey. There may be some temporary road closures, and we would encourage you to please follow these.”