Singer is threatened for anti-racist stance

| Monday, 7 July 2008 Source: The Star (South Yorkshire)

The lead singer of a Sheffield band who spoke out against the British National Party says he has received threats of violence from far right supporters.

John McClure, lead singer with Reverend and the Makers, says he was threatened after he took a stance against the BNP and organised a carnival in Rotherham to be staged in September.

He says death threats have been made against him, and against Drew McConnell of band Babyshambles, on the Stormfront internet bulletin board and other far right websites.

The threats came in response to Jon's decision to organise a 'Love Music, Hate Racism' carnival at the Magna Centre on Saturday, September 6.

He said: "I find these people dangerous but this is not going to change anything. Why should we let these people stop us? This shows their behaviour is fundamentally at odds with democracy."

The BNP won their first-ever seats in South Yorkshire in the May local elections. BNP councillors now represent the Brinsworth and Catcliffe and the Maltby wards.

Jon said: "The fact they have been elected in Rotherham is bringing disgrace on our area.

"I respect people's right to democratic choice. Democracy is all well and good but not when these people are spreading their hatred. That's not part of the democratic process."

Wentworth MP and government minister John Healey has also backed the anti-racist carnival and will be speaking at the event.

He said: "I am pleased to back what promises to be a great event with such an important message.

"It is great to see big names in music coming to Rotherham."

Marlene Guest, spokeswoman for Rotherham BNP, said the party had no objection to the concert.

"As far as we are concerned, they can get on with it. We are not against it, it's a free country."