Express and Star Opinion: Those that caused trouble in Southport after three girls killed crossed a moral line
Contrast the yobbery of English Defence League supporters who ran riot in Southport with the quiet dignity of the wider community who had just hours earlier held a peaceful vigil.
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Those who descended on the town, whipped up by false rumours about the attacker, simply added to the agony of a community already in deep trauma and shock.
While the period of mourning should have been allowed to continue quietly, they were instead faced with more violence on the streets, their children kept awake by the roar of police helicopters overhead.
And, the day after the riot, it was that same dignified community who came out to help clean up the mess.
That action was one of defiance – an incredibly powerful show of decency from the ordinary man and woman of Southport.
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The narrative being put out by the EDL and its supporters is divisive and dangerous.
They will manipulate tragic situations like the horrific murders in Southport to suit their agenda and to wrongly point blame.
Clearly many of those involved in the riot also saw it as an opportunity to get involved in the thrill of violence.
After all, what kind of group is it that cheers when they draw blood from a police officer who is purely attempting to keep the peace?
We have experienced the English Defence League in the West Midlands.
Members have attempted to whip up hatred on our streets, but have largely been ignored.
Those that caused trouble in Southport crossed a moral line.
They must be punished severely, not just for the hate and violence but for the further hurt and anguish they have brought to a community in deep suffering. That alone is unforgivable.
