AN ATTEMPT by a handful of far-right protesters to march in Liverpool yesterday turned to farce when they were scared off by around 500 anti-fascists as soon as they arrived at a train station.

Despite heavy police protection, the group of no more than 10 “North West Frontline Patriots” quickly scuttled back into Moorfields station and boarded the next train out of Merseyside.

They had reportedly intended to march from the station to Derby Square.

Anti-racist group Hope Not Hate had said: “Five fascists turned up for a march in Liverpool today. Pleased to report they left after five minutes.”

The anti-fascists, including Liverpool Mayor Joe Anderson, then staged a victory march to the city’s centre.

Their counter-protest was organised by Merseyside Unite Against Fascism (UAF) and Stand Up to Racism (SUTR), and supported by politicians and trade unions, including the Communication Workers Union, general unions GMB and Unite, the National Education Union and public service unions PCS and Unison.

Five local Constituency Labour Parties also gave their support.

After the fascists were humbled and driven out, Mr Anderson tweeted: “So proud of my city when it unites against racists. Peaceful people power chased the fascists off our streets. Hope always defeats hate. They should pick on another city, because you will never march on our streets.”

Paul Jenkins, of North West Unite Against Fascism, said: “The people of Liverpool have once again shown the fascists that they are not welcome here.

“Thanks to everyone who turned out today, and to all the unions, CLPs, politicians and others who supported the UAF/SUTR demo.

“Over 70 years on from the horrors of the Holocaust, it is vital we oppose the fascists to make sure that ‘Never Again’ becomes a reality.”