Leamington people stage march against terror

Claire McCarthy decided to organise the event after coming across the Woolwich Strong: Stand Strong March Initiative on Facebook.

The 32-year-old Leamington cleaning business owner said: “I was outraged when Lee Rigby was murdered. I feel angry that we’re not allowed to fly our country’s flag, that soldiers can’t wear their uniforms outside their barracks and that so many people are afraid to speak out against terrorism for fear of being branded racists.

“That’s why I went out of my way to stress that everyone is welcome to attend the march. I’ve nothing against any one sector of society - except the terrorists and the extremists and I hate the fact that terrorists are being kept in this country however awful their crimes.”

Mrs McCarthy and her friend Angela O’Reilly obtained permission from the police and local authorities serving the area to stage the march - and, speaking aftewards Ms O’Reilly, who estimated that around 200 people took part, said it was “completely peaceful”.

Participants gathered at Christchurch Gardens at the top of the Parade and were invited to buy red and yellow roses, donated by Asda in Sydenham, the proceeds of which raised £105 for Help For Heroes.

They then marched down to the cenotaph in Euston Place, where a two-minute silence was held to pay tribute to Lee Rigby and all armed forces personnel who have lost their lives, and people could then lay down their roses. A wreath, donted by Bluebell Florist in Whitnash, was also laid down.

Stand Strogn marches were held across the country at the same time. Mrs McCarthy said: “Our aim is to achieve a little unity against terrorism and get the word out that something needs to be done, so that people are no longer allowed to come and preach such hate on our streets.”