THE English Defence League was formed in 2009 in response to a demonstration in Luton by Muslim extremists.

Despite the fact that the demonstrators numbered less than 20, and were driven out of Luton by members of the town’s 25,000- strong Muslim community, the EDL grew in strength, its numbers swelled by convicted racists and football hooligans. They then began rampaging around Britain’s towns and cities.

The EDL’s claim to be opposed only to “Muslim extremism” is belied by the actions of its supporters, who shout anti-Muslim slogans and have been involved in an increasing number of attacks on law-abiding Muslim citizens and their mosques.

The EDL was further invigorated by the despicable murder of Lee Rigby and a bungled attempt by misguided “jihadists” to bomb an EDL rally.

Far Right extremists and Islamist extremists aggravate each other in turn, both aiming to provoke hostility and division.

By contrast, the response of the majority of British Muslims has been exemplary. While declining to take part in noisy counterdemonstrations, they have unequivocally denounced the socalled jihadists.

The elders of York mosque, with typically British good manners, even attempted to educate EDL members by inviting them for a cup of tea and a chat.

Pete Winstanley, Durham.