Members of the far right hate group Britain First were on Saturday accused of “exploiting children” after having pictures taken alongside member of the Nottingham Sea Cadets. The following picture appeared on the Britain First Facebook page under the title “Protect The Poppy 2015.”
According to the caption, the image shows Britain First activists (the bookends in bomber jackets) “standing watch over poppy sellers to ensure they don't get any hassle from leftwing anarchists and Islamists.”
Soon after, a notice appeared on the Nottingham Sea Cadets Facebook page distancing their members from the anti-Islamic mob.
“Please rest assured we do not support Britain First,” read a statement from the chapter. “The cadets were approached by these and asked for a photo. They were not aware who they were. We are on the case with our HQ in attempting to get the photo removed. Please help us by reporting the photo.”
In Chesterfield, a similarly dressed duo reportedly hoodwinked children into posing for the same picture.
Britain First was lambasted in the comments on both pictures for their apparent subterfuge.
Wendy Winton said: “The cadets were collecting by themselves and were asked to pose for the picture. Sea cadets UK have asked for the photo to be removed and have been ignored.”
“This is disgusting,” said Lucy Millward.
Julia Katharine Swale accused the group of “exploiting children and posting their images online without permission," which she called "a crime."
Kieran Owen said: “The sea cadets don't want this photo on here, they did not know you were Britain First or 'protecting them.' Take this photo down and apologise for lying to the people on this page.”
Tom Rowel, however, applauded the action of the Britain First. “Once again well done Britain first. Keep up the good work as the police seem reluctant to do so,” he wrote.
Britain First has not responded to a request for comment.
(H/T @SLATUKIP)