"I am here today to show solidarity but also to thank the UK for the way they have treated me."

These were words spoken by Hange, DRS volunteer, to a reporter from the Nottingham Post.

Yesterday around 200 counter protesters gathered outside the Novotel In Long Eaton to show solidarity with the residents facing a protest by the far right.

Chanting “say it loud, say it clear, refugees are welcome here!” groups from Open Nottingham, Derby Care4Calais, Nottingham Stand up to racism, Notts TUC, Erewash Green Party, PCS Union and many others, along with local residents and 20 DRS volunteers, made sure that all asylum seekers in Long Eaton know that we are happy they are here and we will protect them from the nasty minority.

The group of far right protesters numbered only around 20. Attempts to engage them in conversation mainly ended in abuse and threats.

Despite strong emotions and heated exchanges of words from both sides, the demonstration remained peaceful and police were able to keep watch without direct involvement.