The Surrey town of Horley became the latest battleground in the fight against intolerance over the weekend, as a planned gathering by far-right supporters was met with a formidable and peaceful counter-demonstration.
Hundreds of local residents, organised by the group Stand Up To Racism, took to the streets in a powerful show of unity. Their message was clear: hatred and division have no place in their community.
A Community Stands Together
The counter-protest was a direct response to the presence of supporters associated with the controversial figure Tommy Robinson. Eyewitnesses reported a significant police presence, which ensured the events remained separate and peaceful throughout the day.
Chants of "refugees are welcome here" and "no to racism" echoed through the town, significantly outnumbering the opposing group. The demonstration served as a testament to the community's commitment to inclusivity.
Voices from the Protest
Local organisers and participants emphasised that the event was about protecting Horley's diverse and welcoming character. One resident was quoted saying, "We will not stand by and let hateful rhetoric go unchallenged in our town. This is our home, and everyone is welcome here."
The successful counter-protest highlights a growing trend of communities across the UK actively mobilising to reject far-right ideologies at a local level, often preventing such groups from gaining a foothold.
The Aftermath and Local Impact
Surrey Police confirmed that the event concluded without major incident, crediting the largely peaceful conduct of both groups. The strong turnout from Horley residents sends a strong message about the values upheld by the community.
This event in Horley is part of a wider national conversation concerning free speech, the right to protest, and how communities can effectively stand against extremism and promote social cohesion.
