Hundreds of protesters descended on Dover today for a series of anti-immigration demonstrations, met by a significant police presence aimed at preventing a repeat of the violence seen in previous years.
More than 900 people had pledged to attend the event, organised under the banner “Stop the boats now! 10,000+ bikers and friends illegal migrant protest ride to Dover,” coordinated by Kent Motor Heads Events. A smaller counter-protest, organised by Stand Up To Racism (SUTR), also took place, with about 25 participants gathering at Market Square.
While there were heated exchanges and chanting between the two groups, Kent Police confirmed there were no arrests and praised residents for their patience throughout the day.
Tense but Peaceful
Officers were stationed across key areas of the town, including Market Square and Townwall Street, as anti-immigration protesters chanted slogans such as “Get them out”, “We want our country back”, and “Send them home.” Counter-protesters responded with banners declaring “Refugees are welcome here” and “Blame billionaires, not migrants.
Despite the charged atmosphere, no violent clashes were reported — a stark contrast to the January 2016 riots in Dover that led to dozens of convictions.
Naomi Wimborne-Idrissi of the National Education Union said:
“We need to build solidarity in our communities. Refugees are fleeing for safety and deserve compassion, not hatred.
Far-Right Figures in Attendance
Several high-profile figures from the far-right attended the demonstration, including Britain First leader Paul Golding, who criticised government immigration policies, and local activist Steve Laws, who claimed:
“The landscape has changed. People have woken up to the issues surrounding immigration.”
Participants included many from biker groups, with Townwall Street car park serving as a major meeting point before marches through the town and seafront.
Former councillor and counter-protester Keith Sansum stressed that while the immigration system needs reform, calls to simply “send them home” are neither realistic nor humane:
You can’t have the RNLI pick people up at sea and take them back to Africa.
Political Reactions
Local MP Mike Tapp (Labour) urged visitors to support local businesses and avoid disruption. Meanwhile, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said she was being updated on the situation and reiterated the need for respectful dialogue over immigration issues.
Police Praise for Calm Response
Kent Police issued a statement:
“We would like to thank residents in Dover for their patience and understanding during today’s protests, which have now concluded and passed without major incident.”
By early afternoon, the small counter-demonstration had dispersed, and protesters filled local pubs, celebrating what they deemed a successful rally.
As Dover continues to be a flashpoint in Britain’s heated immigration debate, the town once again showed resilience — ensuring today’s passionate protests remained peaceful.
