WARRINGTON Momentum have accused Tommy Robinson supporters of ‘rampaging’ through the town during his visit.
Police are investigating a number of assaults in the Bridge Street and Market Gate area following a rally by Robinson in Warrington on Thursday, May 2.
A milkshake was thrown over the English Defence League founder, who is standing as an independent candidate in the upcoming European Parliament elections, on the afternoon in question.
Video footage then appeared to show Robinson – whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon – throwing a number of punches in retaliation, while large scale disorder was also reported in the area in the aftermath.
And Warrington Momentum chairman Kenny Watson has claimed that the far-right activist’s followers attacked and hospitalised three people in the town centre, including a young woman whose nose was broken.
Mr Watson said: “Many Warringtonians were appalled to hear that this notorious racist Tommy Robinson was on his way to Warrington.
“Warrington Momentum acted as soon as we heard, and we are proud of our role in leading the opposition to Robinson and his hateful agenda.
“Momentum members, supporters and other anti-racists peacefully demonstrated against this known fascist.
“But Tommy Robinson and his thugs rampaged through the centre of Warrington, assaulting many and hospitalising 3 people – including a 24-year-old woman who was attacked by 3 Robinson supporters, breaking her nose.
“This demonstrated one basic tenet of fascism and comes straight out of the Nazi manual – silence any opposition.”
The disorder has led to Warrington Momentum forming a new action group, Warrington Against Racism and Fascism.
Mr Watson added: “We successfully opposed them, however Tommy and his ilk will be back.
“This is why the anti-racist protestors involved in the protests have formed a campaign – Warrington Against Racism and Fascism.
“We encourage everyone who is appalled by racism and islamophobia to join this campaign.
“The next time Nazis come to our town, we will be ready to oppose them.”
Cheshire Police has confirmed that it is investigating several alleged assaults in the Bridge Street area between 3pm and 6pm on the day in question.
The force said two people suffered injuries and were taken to hospital, but both have since been discharged.
No arrests have yet been made.
Chief inspector Simon Meegan said: "We are aware there has been a lot of talk, videos and speculation about what happened on social media, but we need to hear from people who were there at the time and witnessed what happened.
"In particular, we want to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time and recorded any of the incidents on their mobile phone.
"This is a complex investigation which involves a large number of people, and we are treating this matter seriously and asking for the public's help in tracing those responsible.
"Should anyone else who was in the area at the time feel that they were a victim of crime, please contact us on 101.
"We will not tolerate disorder or any level of violence in Warrington whatever the motivation, and I would like to thank members of the public who have already provided information to assist the police investigation."
Milkshake thrower Danyal Mahmud said he was working in the town centre and was on his way home when he was approached by far-right activists.
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How was my man so casual 😂
— Az (@AzTheBaz) May 2, 2019
🎶 Tommy Robinson's milkshake brings all the boys to the yard 🎶 pic.twitter.com/M1sYUyp02w
The 23-year-old added: “I was in Warrington for a meeting and afterwards was on my way home, I had to pass this group of people.
“Tommy Robinson just kept coming to me and talking to me, and I kept moving location – I was the only Asian guy there.
“I said to him, ‘I do not wish to speak to you on or off camera’ - I just got annoyed with him and a milkshake slipped out of my hand.
“I had no intention of doing anything or reacting in any way, but he kept talking – I feel a bit shaken up and shocked to be honest.”
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