Despite a counter demonstration by anti-fascist protest, the event appears to have passed relatively peacefully.
Robinson, real name Stephen Christopher Yaxley-Lennon, was promoting his new book Mohammed’s Koran, in which, according to the author, he “explains why Muslims kill for Islam”.
A large crowd gathered at the Castlefield Arena, an outdoor performance space in Rice Street, to hear the EDL founder speak and buy copies of the book.
Around 50 police officers were present to oversee the event.
Counter protestors from United Against Fascism held their own rally close by, and could be heard chanting “Nazi scum off our streets” at Robinson supporters.
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Dan Hett, brother of Manchester bombing victim Martin Hett, gave a speech at the counter demo, and was reportedly heckled by far right supporters at the Robinson book launch.
Robinson later invited his fans to join him on a pub crawl through Manchester, posting on Facebook: “Lets stick two fingers up to the bully boy tactics of the chief inspector of Manchester police and the little w****r who runs the licensing on Manchester council.”
He tweeted this morning that he was “never drinking again”.
Robinson had been forced to cancel an event in Newcastle earlier this week when Northumbria Police raised concerns about it taking place during Newcastle United’s home game with Bournemouth.
Express.co.uk has contacted Greater Manchester Police for comment.