NEARLY 500 English Defence League protesters turned up for a march in Dewsbury town centre.

Police and faith groups throughout Huddersfield urged North Kirklees residents to stay away from Dewsbury Town Hall ahead of the rally.

But with strict enforcement in operation, police confirmed a “peaceful passing of the static demonstration”.

A councillor said the march had cost the Dewsbury and wider economy around £500,000, through the policing operation and cost to the council and traders hit by a lack of business as shoppers stayed away from the town centre.

Police said that around 450 English Defence League (EDL) protesters turned up with around 50 members of opposing groups Unite Against Fascism (UAF) and Trades Union Congress (TUC).

Kirklees police Divisional Commander, Chief Superintendent David Lunn thanked partner agencies, the organisers of the demonstrations and people in Kirklees.

Chief Supt Lunn said: “We are pleased to say that Saturday’s events have passed without incident and that disruption to Dewsbury was kept to a minimum, with the town returning to normal as soon as possible.

“I would like to thank the community, our partners in the council and other agencies and the event organisers themselves, with whom we have worked tirelessly to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all concerned throughout the day.

“Approximately 450 EDL demonstrators attended, along with approximately 50 counter-demonstrators, mainly from the UAF and TUC.

“There have so far been five arrests for minor incidents.

“I am very proud of the community response to the events.