Dudley far right protest: We're not thugs, Nazis or racists, say organisers ahead of march against 'islamisation'

Members of the All Football Fans/Firms Against Islamisation (AFFFAI) group will descend on Dudley on June 13 in protest over plans for a new mosque to be built.

It will be the third such protest to come to the Black Country town since February – following demonstrations by the English Defence League (EDL) and Britain First.

But traders are divided over whether they are going to keep their businesses open on the day - with some fearing they will not be covered by their insurance if there were any problems.

And Tony Swannie, owner of indoor market Plaza Mall, said many were 'scared' to open.

An open letter titled - to the Dudley town locals, traders and all whom it may concern - has been published on the website by AFFFAI event host Kevin Smith.

He has dismissed traders concerns saying they shouldn't fear the group.

The letter says: "As the organiser of All Football Firms/Fans March Against Islamisation that will take place in your town on June 13, I would like to ensure you that I understand any concerns you may have regarding our event and the number of people attending.

"However we cannot stand back and watch the changes that are happening in our country and do nothing about it.

"We are not coming to Dudley to cause trouble or distress, we are coming to have our say against the slow but steady Islamisation of the country that's happening in front of our very eyes.

"We are not a bunch of thugs, Nazis or racists."

It adds: "I would strongly stress to the local traders that they need not close up while the march takes place. "Remain open because we could even increase their custom for the day. It's not them we have a problem with so should not fear us.

"They should take the opportunity to further complain to the local council for the reason we are coming in the first place.

"We appreciate some of you may have different point of view and opinion but as we are still living in a democratic country we have the right to speak up against what we find wrong and offensive towards our culture and traditions.

"We welcome your presence at the march and hope you understand the reason we are doing it."