Polite notice

Another reason for our trip to the seaside (below) was a meeting with Dorset Police. In addition to the Forest/Free Society reception, we are considering some form of public protest during the Labour party conference. A march, perhaps, or (more likely) a static protest against the smoking ban outside the conference centre in Bournemouth - if there is sufficient support.

Security is particularly tight at party conferences and with everyone being a little jumpy it's best to do things by the book. Our meeting on Thursday lasted an hour during which we were given a very clear indication of what we can and can't do.

One of our proposals - a live rock band outside the conference centre or on a passing float - was politely knocked back. So too was my preferred march route. Dorset Police have a set route and woe betide anyone who veers off that path!

A detailed five-page document entitled 'Guidance to organisers' left us in no doubt of our responsibilities. Sections include 'Statements of intent', 'Briefing of stewards',  'Fitness of stewards', 'Communication with organisers', 'Communication with police', 'Safety officers', 'Additional guidance' and 'Debriefing'.

Before going ahead with a public protest we first have to submit plans for the police to consider. Proposed date is Tuesday September 25th, the same day that Gordon Brown is due to give his first speech to conference as prime minister and leader of the Labour party. If you are interested in taking part, email protest@forestonline.org.

Paul and Chris walk tall

Good luck to Paul Toole and Chris Elliott, who are organising a protest march against the smoking ban in Glastonbury today. (Story HERE.)

Yesterday, I met the pair of them in Wells, which is where they held their first protest a few weeks ago. The event may have attracted 'only' 40 people, but in terms of media coverage it punched well above its weight. Hopefully, the Glastonbury march will do the same.

I admire people like Paul and Chris. It takes energy, determination and a lot of planning to organise an event like this. It also takes nerve. (How many people will turn up? How will the public respond? Will everything go according to plan?) Modest and unassuming, they deserve our support.

Update on Saturday, August 11, 2007 by Simon Clark

Paul and Chris have just phoned to say that 80 people took part in the march, double the number in Wells. They were accompanied by a tobacco enforcement officer and an environmental health officer. Afterwards, 40 marchers went to a local pub and lit up in the skittle alley, which counts as an enclosed public place. As a result, Chris was handed a £30 fine by the tobacco enforcement officer who followed them to the pub, and the publican received a warning. According to Paul, the TEO then requested three Forest t-shirts - one for himself, the others for his two sons - and offered to donate £15 towards Chris's fine. You couldn't make it up!

Thanks to Ali, one of the marchers, for the picture of Chris (above left) with his ticket!

Paul's protest moves to Glastonbury

Following a well-publicised protest in Wells, Somerset, karaoke owner Paul Toole is organising a similar event in Glastonbury on Saturday August 11. The march coincides with the Glastonbury Extravaganza (August 10-12) so it promises to be well worth the effort. More details HERE.