Monday, November 29, 2010

English Defence League protest in Preston

This past Saturday the English Defence League (EDL) formed a protest in Preston City Centre, which was  countered by the Unite Against Fascism (UAF). This of course created a huge Police presence, where the forces called in other Police from surrounding areas.

I thought it would be a good chance to get some front line pictures. I had no opinion about this protest, although the 'fear' factor that the local media caused was annoying. They kept telling people to stay out of the city centre, and repeating that it could be dangerous. I think at one point I was out numbered by Police, and the shear presence was overwhelming. If anything it was a day for crime anywhere outside of the city.

I thought I'd try and approach my pictures with Robert Capa's famous quote in mind, 'If your pictures aren't good enough, you're not close enough'. So I decided to find the EDL and get close in the group. I managed to find a pub they had arranged to meet, and start from there. I did encounter a mixed reaction to my presence. I got told, 'f**k off you're not taking my picture' - to groups wanting pictures taken. I managed to get a good feel for what was going on, and if anything if I did feel slight anger I'd move on and find someone else to capture.

- On a personal note I do not agree with opinions expressed by others in these images. I merely attended the day from a reportage point of view - I'll post more on this day soon.


























2 comments:

John said...

Those are really good pics. You should make sure you stamp your names into the corner of these so no-one steals them. Especially the Union Jack in the sun (0080e) - I love it. In fact I have already stolen it...

Jenja said...

Truly amazing, David!!

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