Around 50 members of SIAN and the Norwegian Defence League were at the demonstration, according to SIAN member Merete Hodne from Bryne, a small town in Rogaland County, western Norway. Some protesters were from Stavanger.

She told Stavanger Aftenblad, “I am here to support the Norwegians and people from all over Europe who oppose the Islamisation of Europe.”

Ms Hodne also claims that the turnout was more than the 150 participants reported by the Danish police and that support would grow for the movement.

“I feel that we can get more and more support. Many don’t dare say it, but I notice it. I can’t explain it, but I notice it,” she said.

SIAN leader, Arne Tumyr alleges the organisation has doubled its membership since Anders Behring Breivik’s 22nd July attacks.

A counter-demonstration of approximately 5,000 people also gathered, protesting against the Right-Wing organisations’ beliefs, with some throwing stones and bottles.

Jan Erik Skretteberg, from Ny SOS Rasisme, was among those in the counter-protest. He believes that the Right-Wing movement is marginal, however.

“They try to create the impression that they are many more than they are by saying that there are few who dare to stand up, and so on. Attendance is low, considering that this has been the major event for this type of movement over the past year.”

Police made around 80 arrests were at the rally, including several Norwegians and Swedes. Reports indicate the Norwegians have now been released.

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