MEMBERS of the English Defence League staged a protest at a pro-refugee picnic.

It follows the group laying a wreath at Colchester War Memorial this morning, where Essex Anti-fascists and members of the public protested about their presence in Colchester.

The Friendship Picnic, organised by the Trade Council, different faith groups, Sixth Form college students and local charities, was held in Castle Park in response to the wreath-laying.

The event is intended to celebrate the diversity and tolerance of the people of Colchester.

EDL members stood next to the picnic which started at 3.30pm and held up flags reading "refugees not welcome."


The EDL left the picnic at around 4.30pm.