EDL protesters due in court

TWO Oldham men were due to appear in court today following the English Defence League demonstration in Manchester.

Kevin Greaves (30), of Springwood Hall Road, and James Crangle (30), of North Croft, both Fitton Hill, have each been charged with a public order offence and bailed to appear at Manchester City Magistrates’ Court.

A 2,000-strong crowd descended on Piccadilly Gardens on Saturday as members of the EDL clashed with the Unite Against Fascism group.

The two factions were separated by a heavy police line including riot patrol officers.

A total of 48 arrests were made — 11 of those receiving fixed penalty notices, 22 — including one woman — were bailed pending further inquiries, three were cautioned and six held for breach of the peace —one reprimanded. Two more men will also appear in court this week.

David Monks (33), from Bolton, is charged with a public order offence. Michael Collins (35), from Blackpool, who was arrested near to the demonstration but was not involved, is charged with possession of cannabis.

Another man was arrested and subsequently released when officers discovered that he had not committed any offences.