Tensions Rise in Plymouth City Centre as Protest and Counter-Protest Face Off
Crowds gathered in Plymouth city centre yesterday as Flag Force Plymouth held a protest on Old Town Street, drawing around 60 to 70 people at its peak.
A small group of counter-protesters around 10 to 20, many wearing face coverings were already in the area before the main crowd arrived.
As Flag Force supporters and members of Plymouth’s Iranian community came together, the atmosphere lifted, with flags raised and chants in support of the USA and Israel, alongside shouts of “England till we die” echoing through the street.
Early on, there was little police presence, with only a couple of liaison officers briefly attending and moving on as things appeared calm.
However, as numbers grew, so did the friction on both sides. Verbal exchanges intensified, leading to a number of flashpoints, including moments of pushing and shoving caught on camera.
Police then arrived in greater numbers, stepping in to separate the groups and bring the situation under control. Officers remained on scene, preventing any further escalation.
While tensions did surface at points, much of the day involved flag waving, chanting, and a visible turnout from those taking part in the demonstration.
Photographs © Wayne Perry / Plymouth Post