Cops had to disperse a surprise protest in Wolverhampton city centre held by the Far Right English Defence League yesterday.
About 50 members of the extremist organisation marched through shopping areas on Saturday morning before being moved on by police.
Shoppers and city centre staff were forced to flee as the chanting protesters moved along Dudley Street.
“There were about 50 of them walking up the street,” said one shop worker, who did not want to be named.
“They had banners and were chanting and singing.
“It didn’t last very long but was quite scary.”
A West Midlands Police spokesman said: “Protesters arrived at 11.45am and dispersed just before 2pm. There were no reports of disorder.
“An additional police presence remained in the city and local officers visited shops to update staff and shoppers.”
The spokesman added the force were aware that the EDL were planning an event and were prepared for it.
Two people were arrested after the protest but cops said they may not have been connected to EDL activities.
Sunday Mercury
