"Sheffield will not be intimidated by this thuggery" says council leader after Tommy Robinson-backed protest
“We will not be divided. We will not be intimidated. And we will not be silent”
The leader of Sheffield City Council has spoken out against a surprise march through the city’s streets on Sunday by hooded individuals targeting a coach company accused of transporting asylum seekers.
Residents in Darnall woke up on Sunday, October 11 to find large groups of people dressed all in black marching through the streets.
It is understood the protest was organised by Patriot Platform and was targeting Linburg Coach Travel depot on Catley Road, who they accuse of transporting asylum seekers.
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In response, council leader Fran Belbin has called on all local politicians to “speak out for unity”.
Coun Belbin said: “The sight of masked fascists on the streets of Darnall early this morning, targeting local businesses, was terrifying for our residents. These thugs are not from Sheffield, we are informed that they were travelling to another area and made an unplanned visit to our city.
“Sheffield is built by and for our many communities and we will not be divided or intimidated by this thuggery. All politicians in our city should speak out for unity and against the divisions caused by racism, antisemitism, Islamophobia and anti-migrant sentiments.”
Patriot Platform was founded by Danny Tommo.
It is understood that similar protests also took place across the country at the same time.
Far-right commentator Tommy Robinson - otherwise known as Stephen Christopher Yaxley-Lennon - shared his support for protestors “out across the country today”.
He added in a post on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter: “Patriot Platform heading through the islamic (sic) ghetto of Darnall in Sheffield today on their latest mission.”
Darnall councillors have organised a public meeting to hear residents concerns following the march.
Coun Zahira Naz added: “Let me be clear: we will not allow fascism, racism or hatred to take hold in our communities. Darnall is built on diversity, solidarity and people standing together. We will not be intimidated, divided or silenced.
“I request all local residents to remain vigilant, look out for one another and report any concerning activity to the police. Please keep yourselves and each other safe.
“Darnall belongs to all its people. We will not be divided. We will not be intimidated. And we will not be silent.
“I will continue to work with all our local faith institutions to ensure we collectively deal with these issues.”