SHEFFIELD anti-racists have condemned the “disgraceful” police decision to allow a far-right march on refugee accommodation today.

Ukip supporters are due to meet at Sheffield Cathedral at 1pm for a planned march as part of the group’s “mass deportations” tour of Britain. The route has been agreed with police, who have ordered anti-racists not to gather at that site.

Sheffield Communities Against Racism and Fascism (Scarf) spokesman Andrew Scarsdale said: “This disgraceful decision by South Yorkshire Police, in the wake of the Manvers riots in Rotherham, should be resisted. 

“This position goes way beyond any question of free speech and is tantamount to direct support for the abuse of vulnerable people, including women and children.”

Sheffield Christians against Nationalism added: “[Ukip leader] Nick Tenconi and Ukip are attempting to sow religious hatred between Christians and Muslims in our communities. We must come together to resist their hate.”

Sheffield Stand Up to Racism said: “The decision to impose a Section 14 order on Sheffield’s
proud and diverse anti-racist movement puts refugees, asylum seekers and their
supporters at risk of violence.

“It is our view that anti-racists should still assemble at Sheffield Cathedral. Thousands of leaflets, hundreds of posters have covered the city to advertise the protest.  

“It would be impossible to guarantee that everyone planning to attend will be aware of SY Police conditions. It would be a dereliction of our duty of care to all those vowing to defend our city from fascists to move the protest at such short notice,” it said.

The force was contacted for comment.