More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
Fear is growing over possible clashes between migrant supporters and far right groups at a planned demonstration in Dover on Saturday.
A 'solidarity stand' attended by various signatories including the mayors of Deal and Folkestone is scheduled to be held in Market Square at 11am on September 5.
The gathering which will include guest speakers is in support of more than 4,000 people who have made the dangerous Channel crossing via small boat this year.
It was organised by the Kent Anti-Racism Network (KARN) following the death of Sudanese migrant, Abdulfatah Hamdallah.
But far-right organisers for various groups have since warned on social media they plan to “take Dover by force” by blocking roads and ferries.
Their presence has sparked concern that there could be a repeat of January 30 2016's chaos when a far-right demonstration against refugees and a counter-demonstration by anti-fascist campaigners resulted in violent scenes .
It led to convictions of 64 people and jail sentences totally 85 years being imposed by the courts, some suspended.
Ben Bano, co-director from Seeking Sanctuary, a cause which aims to promotes an understanding of the needs of all those seeking sanctuary in the UK, said: "We believe in treating everyone including asylum seekers with dignity and humanity.
"For this reason, we hope that the gathering on Saturday will promote tolerance and understanding and we hope that the proposed action of the far right will not detract from this purpose."
Dr Joe Mulhall, a senior researcher at Hope Not Hate, told a national newspaper: “Details about the event are currently confused, with different parts of the UK far-right scene planning concurrent events. Some are planning for people to block the streets around the port, while other more extreme elements are likely to take a confrontational approach.
“While unlikely to attract large numbers, the protest could prove to be a dangerous and possibly violent flashpoint where an angry and frustrated far right take to the streets once more.”
Police have confirmed that they are aware of the planned demonstrations.
Inspector Jody Gagan-Cooke said: ‘"Kent Police is working with partners including the local authority to minimise any potential disruption."
