COMMUNITIES and trade unionists in Aberdeen braved wind and rain to stand “united against the far-right’s hatred, racism and fascism” today.

About 80 far-right anti-immigrant activists travelled to Aberdeen in an effort to ramp-up tensions in the city, only to collapse into chaos when faced with a locally led united front.

Invoking the city’s “proud history of opposing racism and fascism,” Aberdeen Trades Union Council (ATUC) secretary Kate Ramsden called on the city’s people this week to join the counter protest and “reject this hate, in favour of sticking together to force our Scottish and UK governments to adopt and implement economic policies that create jobs, improve and expand our public services and create greater equality.”

That call was met with enough support to rally in numbers double that of the far right, and speaking from the rally, Ms Ramsden told the Star: “Our workplace and community-based experiences show that adults and children enjoy the many different cultures here in Aberdeen with neighbours, family, friends and workmates all enjoying each other’s company in workplaces, schools, community centres and other places where we meet and mingle.  

“Today, we stand united against the far right’s hatred, racism and fascism. Today we combatted messages of right-wing hate with a celebration of love, friendship and Christmas cheer, with loud music, dancing, live music and singing. 

“Twice the police had to contain them as they broke through the barriers, incensed that we chose to oppose their racist rhetoric with fun and togetherness and our own clear message that refugees are welcome here and we will not allow them to be demonised. 

“We are all Jock Tamson’s bairns.”