Westcliff Counter-Protest

SHOPS in Westcliff were boarded up and shows at the Cliffs Pavilion cancelled, amidst fears of far-right protest on August 7.

 Rumours had been circulating nationally of plans of protest, with one event allegedly for Hamlet Court Road.

 In response, shop owners boarded up shop windows, amidst fears of an “anti-immigration demonstration” as part of violence that has erupted across the UK in the previous two weeks.

The cancellations at the iconic theatre came after Essex Police issued a message urging residents to “ignore” posts circulating on social media, which stated that a demonstration was in parts of Essex on 7th, including in the city.

 Nonetheless, hundreds of people took to the streets of Westcliff at around 7pm in a huge counter-demonstration, with pictures showing Hamlet Court Road filled with counter-protesters, many holding banners proclaiming ‘Love not Hate’, ’Nanas against Nazis’ and ‘Migrants Welcome Here’

 One man was arrested in the area shortly after 5.15pm earlier that evening on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon after he was searched by officers.

 Essex Police assistant chief constable Andy Mariner said: “We know there was information circulating which was naturally causing concerns among our communities.

 “We were prepared and the upshot of that preparedness was that the situation was never at risk of escalating.

 “Although a number of groups were present in Hamlet Court Road, officers continued to speak with them throughout the evening.

 “That meant all parties were aware of what would be acceptable to us and what wouldn’t.

 “I hope the reassurance we have provided and delivered for our communities shows our commitment to them.”

 “But the policing plan in place for this was only possible because of the dedicated officers involved.

 “As chief officers, we never take this for granted.

 “Officers made alternative childcare or care arrangements to be available to work, they may have had other plans with friends and family, but made themselves available to work.

 “All because of their sense of duty to the Essex public and for that I thank them.”

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