The city's mayor has raised concerns about a far-right group planning a protest in Bristol next month - saying that he has previously been "chased down the streets by people who didn't like the colour of my skin".
A major police operation could be taking place in Bristol city centre in a couple of weeks when a far-right group are planning a protest around the empty plinth of slave trader Edward Colston. For Britain, an organisation led by Anne Marie Waters, said they would be campaigning against Black Lives Matter at the site of the plinth on Saturday, April 9.
Already, a range of anti-racism and anti-fascist groups in Bristol have pledged to stage counter demonstrations at this prospect. Speaking during a press briefing today (March 30), city mayor Marvin Rees shared his concerns.
Read more: Far right group For Britain plans to rally in support of Colston in Bristol
He said: "I am not sympathetic to far right messaging. I would prefer not to have far right demonstrators rolling around the streets of Bristol, that is correct.
"I have been chased down the streets by people who didn't like the colour of my skin, who were not fan of migrants."
Mr Rees has previously raised concerns that demonstrators travel from other cities and towns to protest in Bristol. Following a Kill the Bill march last March, Mr Rees released a statement in which he says a key concern is "the number of people travelling into our city".
At the time, Mr Rees said to would-be protesters: "You can protest in your own town or village, without travelling to ours."
For Britain is planning to gather around the Colston plinth at 1pm on Saturday, April 9. A counter demonstration is now being planned, with people asked to gather at the Colston plinth at 11am that day.
Avon and Somerset Police has previously said it was aware of the demonstration, and was aiming to allow it to happen, while also ensuring it takes place safely.
“We’re aware of a demonstration due to take place in Bristol city centre on Saturday, April 9", a spokesperson for the force has previously said. "We’re in contact with the organisers and our aim is to facilitate the event while also balancing the needs of people who live, work and who are visiting the city.
“Proportionate plans will be in place to monitor the protest and to ensure it takes place safely and with minimal disruption to the wider community," he added.
