Wellington businesses re-open following demonstrations
Businesses in Wellington are today re-opening as normal after around 350 demonstrators from the English Defence League and an estimated 250 supporters of a ‘unity rally' gathered in the town on Saturday.
Shops which boarded up their fronts last week in preparation for the demonstrations are now being un-boarded. Many businesses lot a large amount of money due to their closure on Saturday the average cost of boarding their shop fronts was estimated to be around £260.
This weekend local residents from across Shropshire are being asked to support businesses in Wellington by visiting the town. A tweet-up is also being organized in the town square at 11am, use #wellingtontweetup to follow the event.
More than 40 people were arrested following the rally on Saturday afternoon which had passed of reasonably peacefully. Those arrested were on Saturday afternoon were for offences such as public order, possession of offensive weapons and breach of bail. Three people were arrested for assaults on three police officers, none of whom were seriously hurt.
Chief Inspector Keith Gee of West Mercia Police said: “There were few problems during the build-up to and during the assemblies and there have been no reports of damage to property or serious injury.
“The success of the operation is due to a number of factors, not least the support from Telford & Wrekin Council in preparing the town for the event and the co-operation of the public.”
Council leader Kuldip Sahota said: “This was a fantastic effort by council officers, West Mercia Police and the whole community of Wellington.
“I realise that this has been a stressful time for everybody but the fact that the demonstrations have largely passed off peacefully vindicates every decision that Telford & Wrekin Council and West Mercia Police have taken.”
