More than fifty British National Party members gathered in Blackpool yesterday to pay their respects to Charlene Downes on the eighth anniversary of her disappearance. They were joined by Charlene’s family, members of the public and supporters from the English Defence League, Casuals United and North West Infidels. 

Activists held a demonstration in Dickson Road outside the takeaway shop – now called Mario’s – in which it is believed Charlene was murdered on 1 November 2003.

They then accompanied Charlene’s family to her memorial bench in Stanley Park, where they laid a wreath and observed a prayer by Bolton Organiser Dorothy Sayers.

After the ceremony, Charlene’s mother Karen thanked all the people who had turned up to demand Justice for Charlene and had taken the time to support her. 

British National Party Chairman Nick Griffin reminded everyone that this is an ongoing campaign and said the Party will not rest until Charlene gets the justice she deserves.

Mr Griffin then spoke about the importance of the internet in spreading awareness about Charlene. He presented Karen with a laptop that had been purchased from his English Fair Fund, along with a dongle with 18 months pre-paid internet connection, to enable her to continue to follow the fight for Justice for Charlene online.

Watch on British National Party TV here.