MORE than 700 people, including some from the Crediton area, marched as "Exeter Together" in Exeter last Saturday morning in protest against the English Defence League (EDL), who held a march through a part of the city during the afternoon.

Exeter Together protesters marched from Belmont Park to Bedford Square during the morning, arriving in Bedford Square for a rally.

The EDL's march ended with speeches in Northernhay Gardens, which was closed to members of the public by police.

Some EDL marchers dressed in burkhas, balaclavas and masks with the St George's cross on their face.

Police estimate that the EDL event attracted fewer than 250 supporters despite bringing in members from EDL groups elsewhere in the country.

Police arrested four people in connection with the marches.

Representatives from Exeter City Council, unions, churches and charitable groups across the city turned out to support Exeter Together against the EDL.

Among those at the Exeter Together march were members of Mid Devon Labour Party and Crediton Green Party members.

Justin Beament, from Down St Mary, a member of Mid Devon Labour Party, said: "We marched to demonstrate and celebrate racial tolerance, cultural diversity, respect and multiculturalism in our community."

Hannah Packham, from Exeter Together, said: "Our message is clear: the EDL with their racist, divisive politics are not welcome in Exeter."

Kieran Hallett, from the Exeter branch of the EDL, said: "They say we need to celebrate diversity. Why do we need to celebrate diversity - we're all equal.

"They say we're not welcome in Exeter, we are welcome. We're the people who are doing their work for them."

Mr Hallett said the EDL was not in the city to cause trouble.

Police officers from other force areas were drafted in to assist local officers at the marches.