Key Highlights
- Hundreds of protestors marched through Southport in a demonstration against illegal immigration and digital ID.
- The march was accompanied by Union flags and homemade signs, including one declaring “deport illegal migrants.”
- A counter-protest emerged with chants of “Nazi scum” as tensions escalated near the Funland amusement arcade.
- Merseyside Police maintained control despite a brief scuffle between protestors and police officers.
Protests in Southport: A Clash of Views
Hundreds descended on the coastal town of Southport, Merseyside, to voice their concerns over illegal immigration and the introduction of digital ID. The protest was organized under the banner “Unite the Kingdom,” referencing a far-right movement led by Stephen Yaxley-Lennon.
Organized March
The march began on Marine Drive, Southport, with protestors brandishing Union flags and homemade signs that read messages such as “deport illegal migrants.” The route took them past Ocean Plaza and over the Marine Way Bridge. As they approached Funland, a counter-protest emerged with chants of “Nazi scum, off our streets,” directed at the original marchers.
Escalation and Police Response
The escalating tensions led to a brief scuffle between protestors and police officers who were escorting them. Despite the incident, Merseyside Police managed to keep the situation under control as the march continued past Funland. The force introduced a Section 60 Order covering several key streets in Southport, granting enhanced stop-and-search powers.
Chants and Political Affiliation
Throughout the demonstration, various chants echoed through the town, including “Keir Starmer is a w****r” and “Whose streets? Our streets.” The protestors seemed united in their dissatisfaction with the current Labour government, which they believed was not effectively addressing their concerns.
Conclusion
The protest and counter-protest gradually subsided by around 2.30 pm as both sides dispersed, with some remaining to stand and chant at one another in the rain. The events in Southport highlight ongoing divisions within British society over issues such as immigration and digital identity. Local authorities had anticipated these demonstrations and worked behind the scenes to ensure they remained peaceful.
