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Anti-racists stand up to fascist thugs

Protesters outnumber EDL as group attempts rally in Exeter

Angered locals outnumbered the English Defence League by more than three to one as the racist group's supporters gathered in Exeter at the weekend.

Around 200 of the league's supporters rallied in the city centre on Saturday for a march, with coaches arriving from across the country.

But the event came hours after some 700 people held a march of their own in opposition, gathering under the banner Exeter Together.

Anti-racist protester Hannah Packham said it had been a "shock" when the league announced the march, with Exeter Together forming in response.

She said: "While EDL members have come from other parts of the country, Exeter residents have united to show that we will not be divided by their hatred, lies and racism.

"Exeter has united in saying that we love the rich diversity of the city, which helps to make it the great place it is.

"Our message is clear: the EDL with its racist, divisive politics is not welcome in Exeter."

Devon and Cornwall Police said four people had been arrested in connection with the demonstrations, including two men found in possession of an offensive weapon.

A 48-year-old Exeter man was also detained for being drunk and incapable in the city centre and he remains in custody.

Police also issued a 49-year-old Surrey man was also arrested for being drunk and disorderly.

Like many cities, Exeter has seen a rise in racist attacks following the killing of English soldier Lee Rigby in Woolwich earlier this year.

Exeter University law student Kelly To was punched repeatedly in the face and racially abused by a woman on Exeter Quay the day after the killing when a group of men harassed her about the event.

Her attacker Sophie Morgan, 19, pleaded guilty to racially aggravated assault at Exeter Magistrates Court last month.

Ms Morgan was fined £75 and sentenced to 150 hours of unpaid work.

Less than a week later a middle-aged man approached psychology student Sonia Kwong near the university campus and spat in her face.

Her attacker has not been found.

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