A “SMALL and motley crew” of fascists gathered in Telford on Saturday as disgraced far-right Tommy Robinson agitator launched yet another attempt to exploit the experiences of girls who were victims of sexual grooming in the Shropshire town.

But victims of exploitation joined the ranks of anti-fascist protesters condemning Mr Robinson — real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon — and his followers for using them to promote his racist agenda in the community.

Organised sexual exploitation in Telford was exposed after a three-year inquiry.

Mr Robinson, founder of the violent English Defence League, has repeatedly attempted to whip up race hate in the town over the scandal.

His first rally in Telford drew support from 800 racists and fascists.

But subsequent efforts have seen numbers plummet.

Only 400 attended his second attempt.

On Saturday, fewer than 300 attended as numbers continue to dwindle — and they were brought to Telford from across the country.

Anti-fascists have turned out to oppose Mr Robinson and his thugs each time they arrive in the town.

Saturday’s counter-protest was organised by Shropshire and Telford Trade Union Council (TUC) and Stand Up To Racism (SUTR).

The banners and flags on display included those of Coventry TUC, the University and College Union and public service union Unison.

“It’s important that the trade union and the anti-racist movement came out in Telford to oppose fascist Tommy Robinson,” said SUTR co-convener Weyman Bennett.

“He brought a small and motley crew, bussed in nationally to support his derisory event and racist cause.”

Among the speakers at the counter-protest were abuse victims, who condemned Mr Robinson for his attempt to exploit their suffering.

Mr Bennett said: “We demand justice for the victims and won’t let Tommy Robinson divide us.

“Robinson cares nothing for the victims of abuse and simply wants to use their suffering to promote his own violent and Islamophobic agenda, he wants to divide this community.”

West Mercia Police, which has apologised for failing to tackle child sexual abuse in Telford, prevented counter-demonstrators from assembling in the town centre on Saturday. Previously, they had been allowed to do so.

Mr Robinson was jailed in 2019 for contempt of court after jeopardising the trial of men charged with child sexual abuse in Leeds by conducting social media broadcasts outside the city’s crown court.