Crowds expressing contrasting viewpoints converged on Nottingham’s Old Market Square on Sunday afternoon (April 26), with police officers positioned between the groups to ensure separation. The central plaza was sealed off by law enforcement from approximately 1pm as those favouring stricter immigration controls and those opposing such views exchanged competing cries. Promotional material for the Sunday event proclaimed enough is enough and demanded an end to failed policies and mass migration. This material had been shared across social media platforms during the preceding days. Similar content on Facebook suggested a demonstration would also take place in the square on St George’s Day, though this materialised on Thursday (April 23) as anticipated. On Sunday, however, around 50 participants objecting to illegal immigration faced off against approximately 70 individuals from the Stand Up to Racism movement. A police cordon separated the two camps, and the gathering remained largely peaceful throughout Nottinghamshire Live’s time at the scene. After roughly sixty minutes, brief scuffles appeared to develop between those with opposing views, though the separating barrier was swiftly reinstated. Numerous supporters of stricter immigration controls displayed the St George’s flag among among them elderly resident Cath Wilson, who attended alongside her son Chris. The 73-year-old from St Ann’s remarked that newcomers were being brought into the country without knowledge of their identities, and that public funds were covering the costs. She added that those arriving possessed greater financial resources than she received as a pensioner. One counter-demonstrator, who had moved to Britain a quarter of a century earlier, voiced opposition, observing that it was regrettable to witness England embracing such attitudes. She noted that any foreign national arriving by air or sea would naturally be unfamiliar to the area, and that she had been fortunate to travel by plane in search of improved circumstances. She described the level of intolerance as the worst she had encountered, expressing affection for Nottingham. The sounds of chanting from both factions were frequently drowned out by drummers who formed part of the Stand Up to Racism counter-demonstration. Some exchanges involved those opposing the main demonstration calling out free Palestine and refugees are welcome here, with swift responses from those supporting stricter immigration controls. At one point, a small number of protesters from either side appeared to find common ground, with one individual displaying both a St George’s flag and a Stand Up to Racism badge. The demonstrator asserted that she held no racist views and simply opposed division within her nation. Rob, who had travelled from Bilborough to join those campaigning against illegal immigration, characterised his side’s turnout as disappointing despite the earlier online promotion. He explained that when the demonstration was discussed within their group communication, concerns were raised because it concerned their own country. He noted that while many people expressed condemnation, they needed to actually participate. When asked about his motivations, the 68-year-old retiree continued that the issue centred on boats and migrants, and had nothing to do with racism. He stressed the need for action, expressing concern not for his own future but for his grandchildren, whom he said faced difficulties obtaining housing and lost opportunities. Throughout the gathering near the Council House, Palestinian flags were visible alongside placards bearing the Stand Up to Racism name. Richard Buckwell, who coordinates Nottingham Stand Up to Racism, explained that the counter-demonstration was arranged to show backing for immigrants, pointing out that without migrants, the NHS would not exist. Also present were Labour councillors Mike Edwards and Matt Shannon from Nottingham city council. When asked about his presence at the gathering, Mr Edwards stated that he opposed racism and wished to be associated with those protesting against it, noting that far-right groups had a poor history in Nottingham.