Derby protests: Relieved residents 'proud to be from Derby' after peaceful protests
Counter protests of people keen to take a stand against potential far-right gatherings, unfolded in Derby and across the country
Derby was one of 39 locations on high alert yesterday (Wednesday August 7, 2024) after online chatter pointed to potential far-right protests.
Hundreds of people gathered on the streets of the city and Normanton Road, standing in solidarity with local community members, expecting to protest against far-right agitators.
Protests did unfold across the country - but without presence from the far right.
24-hours after the tense atmosphere that thankfully did not involve violence or disorder, Derby locals reacted with relief and pride.
Police forces in Derbyshire and the wider UK acknowledged the ‘unity’ that brought people together on the streets of Derby.
Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley praised local communities for their ‘peaceful and united stance’.
He said: “The show of unity from communities defeated challenges we have seen.
“The fears of extreme right and disorder were abated. It was a successful operation thanks to communities and police.”
Derbyshire Constabulary said it had ‘worked tirelessly’ with partners and community leaders, in response to information circulating online about planned protests.
The police force expressed gratitude for people’s co-operation and reiterated it has ‘full and robust plans in place to deal with any potential violence and disorder’.
Divisional Commander Chief Superintendent Emma Aldred said: “We are very much here to protect the communities of Derbyshire and we are working around the clock in order to do so.
“I want to reassure communities that we are doing our very best in terms of looking at information and intelligence and I want to thank all those that have come forward and provided that information.
Read more: What's On in Derby?
“There is no place in our county for racism, discrimination and the causing of fear which we are seeing amongst our communities.”
You can read the full statement here.
Derby creative Niamh Toner was passing through the area of Normanton on a bus just before the protest.
She felt ‘proud’ seeing diverse communities come together.
Niamh told DerbyWorld: “It was emotionally overwhelming seeing the community - of all ethnicities - coming together as a resistance to the far right racism and riots.
“It was a show of unity, proving hatred will not divide us. It was beautiful to see but also heartbreaking that it has to happen at all.
“The diversity of our country is something to be proud of. Without immigration our economy will collapse but politicians have been scapegoating innocent people, using fear mongering techniques to gain votes and control.
“But last night just proves that the people and unity will always win. Proud to be from Derby right now.”
Community champion Vanessa Boon said: “I am so glad it was a positive night following such fear. Unity was beautiful, all neighbours together in Normanton today.”