CUBA supporters in Sheffield defied the US-inspired current campaign of misinformation against the country today by celebrating the anniversary of a key event leading up to the Cuban revolution.

Supporters of Sheffield Cuba Solidarity Campaign (CSC) gathered in the city’s Botanical Gardens for a celebratory picnic 68 years on from the storming of the Moncada Barracks.

The barracks in Santiago de Cuba was attacked by revolutionaries on July 26, 1953. Led by Fidel Castro, the attack failed but is seen as the beginning of the revolution which led to the overthrow of Cuba’s Batista dictatorship in 1958/9.

The attack led to the formation of the July 26 Movement which continued the revolution until it succeeded.

Sheffield CSC raised Cuban flags and celebrated with music and food today.

Susie Plant of Sheffield CSC said: “The flags created a lot of interest with other people enjoying a sunny day in the park and they left knowing a bit more about Cuba.”

The United States has stepped up its illegal blockade of Cuba following a widespread online campaign of misinformation reporting widespread protests against shortages of food and medicines.

Western media, including in Britain, has shown photos and videos of Cubans staging protests when in fact they featured demonstrations in support of the Cuban government.

The Guardian newspaper had to publish a correction.

Last month, the United Nations General Assembly voted overwhelmingly against the illegal US blockade of Cuba for the 29th time. Only the US and Israel opposed the decision.