Hartlepool by-election candidate holds 'peaceful protest' against handling of pandemic crisis

Steve Jack, Freedom Alliance candidate in the Hartlepool by-election next month, spoke at the A Stand in the Park peaceful protest against lockdown restrictions.

Held in Ward Jackson Park, Mr Jack said those who attended were “a sympathetic gathering of pro-freedom campaigners” and he was impressed by the “warm friendly atmosphere”.

He said it was about encouraging people to stand up against “Government tyranny”.

Mr Jack said: “It was great to meet up with like-minded Hartlepudlians.

“There were around 50 of us in total, and I’m sure there are many more who oppose lockdowns and all the associated curtailments to our freedoms.

“Many people have been suffering badly as a result of Government policy over the past 14 months, but I never fail to be impressed by the warm and friendly atmosphere – and the solidarity and mutual support – being offered at these gatherings.”

He added the event is being held weekly, and is something that originated from Australia as a peaceful protest against lockdowns, and small groups are now meeting up and down the UK.

The 50-year-old said: “This is what the Freedom Alliance is all about: offering these people a voice, showing them they’re not alone, and encouraging them to stand up for freedom when they choose Hartlepool’s next MP at the crucial by-election on May 6.”

The event also featured a rendition of A New Jerusalem by street poet Karl Claxton.

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