An anti‑fascist rally is set to take place in Shepton Mallet Market Place at 12 noon on Saturday (22nd) November, with organisers calling on the community to reject division and address poverty.

The event will open with music, dancing and speeches from campaign groups and unions, led by Fergus Brown and activist Emma King. Brown recently lost a local by‑election by eight votes to a candidate from Reform UK, prompting concern among activists that far‑right rhetoric is gaining traction in the town.

Organisers highlight two incidents as warning signs: the narrow by‑election result and unauthorised paint markings on a local roundabout. They emphasise the rally is about "fighting poverty and inequality, not fueling scapegoating". The full line‑up of speakers and performers is yet to be confirmed.

Speaking about the event, organisers described it as a "peaceful and public show of unity to bring hope to Shepton Mallet".

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