AN event to promote racial harmony in Bury was marred by angry clashes between rival Asian factions this week.

And one man was arrested and police officers mobilised when scuffles erupted outside the Town Hall prior to Wednesday night's (June 14) annual general meeting of Bury Racial Equality Council (REC).

Police intervened to pulled apart some of the 60 placard-waving anti and pro-REC supporters who were staging separate demonstrations outside the civic building.

A juvenile is also expected to be interviewed by officers following an alleged assault when one man was hit over the head with a banner.

The clashes, which were quickly brought under control by police, lasted only minutes and the BREC members were allowed to continue with their meeting. But Dr Mohammed Salim, chairman of the REC refused to condemn the demonstrations, saying that people have a right to protest.

"We live a democratic country and everyone has a right to show their support for organisations," he said.

He played down the incident claiming there were "only minor confrontations" between the factions.

"I am not aware of any major incidents. We were simply trying to stop the leaders of anti-REC protesters decrying the organisation."

He added: "It is nonsense to say this incident will have a negative effect on the REC.We had a very good meeting and our membership is growing all the time."

Leading campaigner for the anti-REC movement, Mr Mohammed Muneer, vowed more demonstrations were planned.

He and his supporters are unhappy at what they see as general dissatisfaction within the Racial Equality Council relating to several issues.

Acknowledging the incident did reflect badly on the Asian community Mr Muneer, a former REC executive member, added: "We had staged a peaceful demonstration to highlight the goings-on in the REC.

"Of course, what happened is embarrassing but we still stage more demonstrations if they are necessary to change the REC."

Bury Police's community affairs inspector, Malcolm Kerford, one of 10 officers at the scene of the trouble, confirmed investigations were taking place into an allegation of assault.

He added: "As a result of a dispute between some members of the two groups, one man has been arrested and will be appearing before Magistrates at Bury later today (Friday June 16)."