Immigration rallies held in Trowbridge over the weekend

Around 55 people turned out in Trowbridge Town Park to support a pro-immigration rally held as a response to a Unite the Kingdom anti-immigration rally.

But only a handful of people turned out to support the Unite the Kingdom ‘silent’ protest outside County Hall.

Campaigners of all ages took part in the pro-immigration group rally. (Image: Trevor Porter)

Matt Cook, who co-ordinated the peaceful rally by the pro-immigration group, said: “Someone did a rough headcount and we reckon there was about 55 supporters in our rally.

“I think literally two or three people showed up over the road so we didn’t need to go over.

“We considered it a victory. We weren’t there to cause any trouble. We were there to give an opposing voice to what we saw was meant to be happening over there.

“We saw it as a victory because they tried to do that and we got 55 people out against three.

“It was a nice showing of good people. We had a nice time and came out as a community.”

Bee, aged eight, with her placard along with the pro-immigration group. (Image: Trevor Porter)

The pro-immigration rally supporters held placards saying ‘Refugees Welcome’, ‘One World One Family’, ‘Love not Hate’, and ‘Mutual Respect’.

They were urged to remain positive and respectful at all times and to not get involved in any confrontation however much they were provoked.

In the end, fears of a potential clash with the Unite the Kingdom group did not occur. Two Wiltshire Police officers were present to police the rallies.

Police were on hand at Trowbridge Town Park to monitor the group supporting immigration. (Image: Trevor Porter)

In contrast, Unite the Kingdom said: “If you are proud of your country and want to see change, please join us and bring your flags and placards.”

The group was also anxious to make it clear they didn’t want trouble, saying: “This is a silent meeting. We don't want or need any kind of trouble.

“This is a direct message to our government to stop the boats, close our borders and start mass deportation.”

Mr Cook added: “It was a very positive thing for us. We were just trying to show that there are people in the town that stand for compassion.

“I know their rally was supposed to be silent but it was to intimidate and to vilify people. We didn’t want that to go unanswered in our town.

“It is such a diverse town and such a beautiful place full of people from all over the world.”