News / Old Market
Counter-protest turns into street party
A counter-protest against a rumoured far-right rally turned into a street party on Wednesday night as thousands of people gathered in Old Market.
People stood shoulder to shoulder on West Street outside the offices of a specialist immigration lawyers that had been put on a target list in a Telegram post.
But even if any anti-immigration agitators wanted to even get close, the sheer strength of numbers prevented them from getting anywhere near.
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As the sun was setting and some counter-protesters drifted back home, others stayed.
And there was a party atmosphere with music and dancing in the middle of the road, once again showcasing the best of Bristol.
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The counter-protest had been called for 7pm and Bristol answered the call.
Standing in front of boarded-up shopfronts across the Old Market area, people power won the day just four days after a human shield successfully defended a hotel in Redcliffe housing asylum seekers from a far-right mob.
Some protesters left their placards on the boarded up frontage of Bristol Law Centre on West Street.
‘The enemy of the working class travels by private jet, not migrant dinghy’ read one.
‘No fascists on our streets’ read another, and that just about sums up what happened on Wednesday in Bristol, despite the occasional rumour that the far-right had been spotted in Castle Park – where a firework was set off – or on Bristol Bridge, or were heading down Church Road from Kingswood.
As the party continued with songs from Donna Summer and Cyndi Lauper, West Street became a perfect example of the benefits of pedestrianisation, with groups of friends sat down, talking, eating and smoking.
Grannies against fascism – photo: Rob Browne
One man was arrested soon before 10pm after a brick was thrown at a police van, with another man arrested for breach of the peace before later being de-arrested.
The large police operation on Wednesday evening featured around 250 officers.
Avon & Somerset Police’s Bristol commander, superintendent Mark Runacres, said: “We know our communities were worried about what might happen but the vast majority of people displayed exemplary behaviour.
“I’m extremely grateful for the assistance we’ve had from community and business leaders both in the lead up to, and during, tonight’s operation. Their support has been invaluable.
“I’d also like to highlight the patience and generosity shown to my officers by local people and businesses. One cafe brought out hot drinks which were hugely appreciated…
“Policing operations like this are always challenging due to the huge number of people involved and so I’m really pleased with how tonight’s has gone.”
Around 250 police officers took part in the operation in Old Market on Wednesday – photo: Jamie Bellinger
‘Keep Bristol anti-racist’ – photo: Rob Browne
Placards were placed on boarded-up shopfronts – photo: Jamie Bellinger
Main photo: Rob Browne
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