GALLERY and VIDEO: Huge turn out for Peterborough March for a Free Palestine

One called it a ‘proud day of solidarity with the people of Gaza’ whilst another felt the turn out to be ‘awesome’ as hundreds took part in the Peterborough March for a Free Palestine.

It was a peaceful protest designed to show a powerful message of support and an impressive line up of speakers greeted protestors as its made its way to Cathedral Square.

360 VR of the march in Rock Park before leaving for Lincoln Road

360 VR of the march heading down Lincoln Road towards Cathedral Square.

The march began mid-morning at Rock Park, opposite Occupation Road, and travelled along Lincoln Road, Westgate, Long Causeway and then onto Cathedral Square.

Peterborough City Council said they had worked with the organisers and Cambridgeshire police to ensure the event passed peacefully.

Much of the planning for the march was coordinated by the The Peterborough branch of Palestine Solidarity Campaign which has more than 1,200 followers on its Facebook page.

The group had invited supporters to ‘bring your flags/banners and voices – let us unite in the cause of the oppressed people of Gaza! ‘

One of the advertised speakers, The Dean of Peterborough, the Very Revd Chris Dalliston, decided to withdraw 24 hours before the march and rally.

He said: “I want to make it clear that I continue to believe there is no moral justification for the unrelenting violence and bloodshed that is devastating the lives of so many innocent civilians, children, women and men in Gaza.

“I further believe that there should be an immediate end to hostilities, the release of hostages, and that work should commence towards a diplomatic solution that enables all people, Israelis and Palestinians, Jews, Christians and Muslims to live in peace, dignity, safety.

“Along with many others I believe that only a two-state solution can ultimately guarantee a future in which all can hope to flourish.

“It is for that reason, that I would not want to appear to endorse the view that Israel has no right to exist, let alone share a platform with those who might think it possible to justify any kind of violence or incite hatred. The prophet Micah writes: What does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness and to walk humbly with your God? These must be the guiding principles for any future settlement.

“The Cathedral community will continue to pray for peace with justice for all.”