Local invitation

South East Alliance said it had been invited to protest.

A spokesman said: “After being approached by local people, we decided to support them by having a demonstration to highlight their opposition to the extension of the mosque.

“They feel they are being ignored by the council. We would like to thank the locals who invited and joined us on our first demo as Kent’s official branch of the South East Alliance and we look forward to the next one.”

Kent Anti-Racism Network revealed the demonstration had a surprisingly positive outcome.

Chairman Bridget Chapman said: “We feel very strongly that fascists should not be allowed to peddle their hate on the streets unopposed.

“These are our communities and we stand together to reject fear and bigotry.

“In a strange way though the fascists have done us a favour, because they brought us even closer together. We received a warm welcome from the mosque and have plans to work together in the future. It’s been a really positive day.”

A police spokesman said: “The planned protest and counter-protest outside the mosque in Mote Road, Maidstone passed peacefully.

“Police officers liaised with representatives of the mosque throughout.”