Hundreds rally in Exeter for ‘Exeter is for Everyone’ march as far-right counter-protest takes place nearby

Exeter city centre was filled with community spirit on Saturday 25 October, as around 1,000 people gathered for the Exeter is for Everyone event to celebrate diversity and inclusivity. 

In Bedford Square, the atmosphere was vibrant and crowded with local charities, trade unions and faith groups hosting stalls beneath flags and banners. There were chants of “This is what community looks like” that echoed through the High Street as families, students and residents of all ages stood together against hate. 

Organised by Stand Up to Racism, the rally drew a broad mix of supporters. One of the Organisers, Andy Gibson, described it as “inspiring and unifying,” telling Exeter Today: “We hoped for 400 to 500 people, but it reached around a thousand. The sound of one thousand voices chanting, ‘Say it loud, say it clear, refugees are welcome here!’ was truly magnificent. People from all backgrounds came together to stand up to racism.”

Andy added that the event gave voice to a “silent majority” who reject division, saying that “most people want to live in peace with neighbours of all ethnicities and faiths.”

At the same time, about 150 people joined a counter-demonstration organised by far-right groups. Carrying Union Jack flags, they marched through parts of the city, separated from the main event by police. Officers formed barriers to keep groups apart, and while tensions occasionally flared, Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed there were no major incidents.

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A Devon and Cornwall police spokesperson told Exeter Today that: “Before the event, officers liaised with organisers to ensure people could protest peacefully while minimising disruption. No arrests were made at the city centre demonstration itself; however, we received a report of an assault outside the Hampton by Hilton hotel. Our enquiries are ongoing.”

Many attendees described the rally as both emotional and empowering. Resident Emma Richards, from St Thomas, said: “It was emotional in the best way, seeing so many people come together for kindness and equality.”

University of Exeter student, Sara Malik, added: “It meant a lot to see so many people standing up against hate. Despite the tension, the day felt peaceful and hop

Councillor Diana Moore (Green Party) said the turnout showed Exeter’s commitment to unity: “Around 1,000 people supported Exeter for Everyone, far outnumbering the 150 who joined the ‘Unity’ march. The message is clear: the strain on communities is not the fault of immigration. Exeter stands for inclusivity and welcome.”

Before the event took place on Saturday, Exeter Civic Leaders issued a joint statement, reaffirming the city’s values that “Exeter has a long and proud tradition of being a welcoming, outward-facing city. We choose unity over division and hope over fear.”