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POLICE are appealing for information after anti-immigration leaflets were delivered to homes in Stroud.
A far right group has been posting the flyers, which claim white Britons will become “a minority by the 2060s or sooner”, through resident’s letterboxes.
Officers would now like to hear from people who have received the leaflets so they can identify which areas have been affected.
Sgt Garrett Gloyn of Stroud Police said: “In recent weeks we have been contacted by residents in the Stroud area who have reported receiving leaflets amongst their post the content of which has either concerned or offended them.
“These leaflets are entitled ‘White Britons to be a minority by the 2060s – or sooner’ and argue of the damage caused by immigration to the UK.
“Our enquiries suggest that the leaflets are being delivered door to door by one or more individuals, rather than an organisation such as the Royal Mail.”
Sgt Glyn added: “Legal advice obtained by Stroud Police suggests that the content and delivery of the material may amount to an offence under section 18 of the Public Order Act – the use of written material to stir up racial hatred.
“We are hoping to identify the person or people who are making the deliveries.
“If you know someone who is delivering this literature in the area we would like to know.”
Polly Stratton of Stroud Against Racism is urging people not to engage with members of the group who are making the deliveries.
She said: “It is incredibly important to not engage with these people, for a number of reasons.
“Firstly, they could be dangerous and unstable and may lash out in violence.
“Secondly, the way these organisations work is that they encourage their members to hand out leaflets that they know will make the public angry. The anger directed at the individuals makes them feel upset, and deepens their connection with the racist organisation which is the only place they feel safe.
“It’s radicalisation, and it’s up to us to stop it.
“The best thing to do if you spot anything like this in the future is take a note of any details that will help the police identify the individual, and the time and date, and report it.
“If you do speak to them, be kind, polite and do not give the individuals any reason to feel that they are on a misunderstood but righteous crusade.”
Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact the police by calling 101, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
