A group of politicians, trade unions and those involved in higher education are grouping together in an effort to counter the presence of Britain First.

Earlier this month the controversial right-wing group who describe themselves as a “street defence organisation” descended on two mosques in Gillingham threatening action if planning for a new place of worship is not withdrawn.

Now, a petition has been launched against Britain First in Medway, and it has been signed by Labour leader Cllr Vince Maple as well as representatives for Unison, Mid Kent College and Love Music Hate Racism.

Guy Jordan, of the new left-wing party, Medway Left Unity, also signed the petition and said: “There has been an upsurge in activity by Britain First both nationally and in Medway.

"Britain First is a racist organisation, founded by and led by former members of the BNP.

“We want to give a message that Britain First is not welcome in Medway and we categorically reject its racist, hate-filled propaganda.”

The application for a mosque on Croneens car park next to Gillingham railway station to replace Jamia in Canterbury Street, was due up before the planning committee this month but has been delayed.

Two weeks ago Britain First went to the Nasir Mosque in Richmond Road, Gillingham, and the Jamia Mosque in Canterbury Street, Gillingham, threatening to begin an anti-mosque campaign.

Mr Jordan, 43, added: “We expect Britain First will be present when the mosque application reaches the planning committee and we want to be there, demonstrating against them.”

The group is new and will be meeting on Monday to discuss setting up a social media page.

In the meantime, to show your support email guy.jordan@talk21.com.

Those who have signed so far:

Cllr Vince Maple
Cllr Tristan Osborne
Guy Jordan - Medway Left Unity
Phil Kane - Medway Broadside
Chas Berry - NAPO
Steve Wilkins - Medway Trades Council
Trish Marchant - Green Party
John Little - Green Party
Ivor Riddell - RMT
Andrew Travers - Unison
Tania Earnshaw - Unison
Ryan Gallagher - GMB
Sucha Singh Gill - Love Music Hate Racism
Tom Butler - Community Union
Matt Stanley - Mid Kent College Students’ Union (MKCSU) President
Katie Rowe - MKCSU Incoming President
Ashley Van Huis - MKCSU Vice-President
Dylan Halpin - MKCSU Women’s Officer
Andy Gordon - Aslef
Dr David Turner
Sophie Young
Nathan Bolton
Joe Parsons