THE far right British National Party have taken to our streets to whip up support for their European Parliament election bid.
The party chose Wednesday, first day of the May races, as a platform for their attempt to secure enough votes in Chester to have a member elected to represent the North West in Brussels.
Two men drove a Jeep, with a BNP placard on its roof, blaring out patriotic music on a route along Frodsham Street and down Foregate Street.
They claimed there were 30 activists in Chester handing out leaflets and the party’s own publication, ‘Voice of Freedom’ and added they had a ‘lot of support in Chester’.
The North West is the constituency of controversial leader Nick Griffin and 8% of votes could see him elected on June 4.
The Chester Asian Council reported the van passing their Northgate Street offices several times during the day.
Chair Abdun Noor said: “I am shocked and disappointed that an organisation such as the BNP would try to gain support from the people of Chester.”
Mr Noor urged people to turn their backs on political parties that attempt to create division and hatred.
He added: “We should all be committed to achieving a greater sense of unity and to work hard together to improve understanding and tolerance between the local multicultural communities.”
Cheshire Constabulary reassured Mr Noor they would be monitoring the campaigning closely to maintain order.
Their spokeswoman Jo Priehs said: “As a constituted political party the BNP are entitled to undertake this activity. As with any other race event Cheshire Police will take appropriate action to prevent offences being committed or to maintain a peaceful atmosphere during the event.”
