BRITAIN First are finalising details for a protest against plans for a new mosque in Dudley, which looks set to attract crowds of up to 500.

The far-right group will march through town on May 9 to show their opposition to Dudley Muslim Association securing planning permission to build a new mosque on Hall Street, in November last year.

Group leader Paul Golding announced on Facebook that a march route had been agreed with police and Britain First would have up to 30 security officers present at the demo, which will start at 1pm, to provide “strict discipline”.

He told the News: “Everything is pretty much organised for our protest now, the police have been very helpful.

“The general feeling among those pledged to attend is very encouraging and positive. I estimate a turnout of around 500 but we will see.”

Deputy leader Jayda Fransen added: “This really is going to show the UK and the world that this is how we do things in Britain. The issue we are going to Dudley about is this mega mosque - it’s an issue that affects everyone, not just citizens of Dudley.

“Quite frankly they are eroding British culture; every time one of them is erected it’s causing irreparable damage.”

West Midlands Police have vowed to keep residents and traders informed about Britain First’s plans by holding two public meetings ahead of the demonstration.

The first meeting will take place on Thursday (April 23) at Dudley Council House at 6pm, with another planned for May 6.

A force spokesman said: “This will enable us to provide an update on the policing operation and answer any questions you may have in relation to the event.”

Town traders are said to be unhappy that the protest is happening so soon after the English Defence League descended on Dudley in February to voice their disapproval of the mosque plans.

The protest saw many businesses shut up shop and Mohammed Sagir, chairman of trader’s group Voice of Dudley Business, said it was an “outrage” that the Britain First protest was going ahead.

Mr Sagir, owner of Direct Link Communications, in Wolverhampton Street, added: “The traders are very angry about it so soon after the EDL one.

“In this economic climate it is very difficult to halt trading for any given amount of time. This is an outrage.”

Dudley Central Mosque chairman, Mohammed Aurangzeb said he thought people had the right to protest peacefully and lawfully but, “groups who spread fear, hatred and division in our communities are not wanted”.

He added: “We believe that the authorities will do their best to ensure the safety and security of local people and that our businesses do not suffer further.”