News / protest
‘Bristol Patriots’ once again hugely outnumbered by counter-protesters
Another weekend in Bristol and another anti-immigration demonstration is hugely outnumbered by counter-protesters.
On Sunday, the Hampton by Hilton hotel on Bond Street was the target of the latest ‘illegal migrant protest’ by a group calling themselves ‘Bristol Patriots’.
They brought flags and banners as instructed, but the few dozen people waving their Union Jack and St George’s flags struggled to make themselves heard over the chants of the counter-protesters.
“We are protesting because we are angry, but we are also proud to be British,” a post on the Bristol Patriots Facebook group said.
“Let’s unite, make our voices heard, and show that we want our country back.”
A few dozen anti-immigration protesters are currently facing off against a much larger group of counter-protesters on Bond Street close to a hotel housing asylum seekers pic.twitter.com/VkqS8FLVhh
— Martin Booth (@beardedjourno) September 7, 2025
The Bristol Patriots were unable to get near the hotel and were hemmed in on the other side of the road.
Chants from the counter-protesters included “Bristol is ant-fascist”, “Nazi scum off our streets” and “Refugees are welcome here”.
Banners held by the Bristol Patriots included ‘Stop the boats. Deport illegals now’ and ‘Keir Starmer’s a wanker’.
A few dozen ‘Bristol Patriots’ were hugely outnumbered by counter-protesters – photo: Rob Browne
A heavy police presence meant that both Bond Street and a stretch of the M32 were closed by police for much of Sunday afternoon.
Three people were arrested on suspicion of assault and affray offences.
The stand-off between anti-immigration protesters and counter-protesters continues on Bond Street pic.twitter.com/eTr4RSbCYQ
— Martin Booth (@beardedjourno) September 7, 2025
Avon & Somerset neighbourhood chief inspector, Serena Serjeant, said: “Our aim is always to enable peaceful protest and action was only required in a few instances where minor offences were identified.
“Thankfully no serious injuries were reported.
“There was some disruption to the road network in and around Bond Street and we’re grateful for the understanding of the public…
“I’m also grateful for the efforts of all the officers involved today. They deserve enormous credit.”
Three people were arrested on suspicion of assault and affray offences – photo: Rob Browne
Main photos: Rob Browne; all videos: Martin Booth
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