A village pub has issued a statement explaining why they hosted the English Defence League (EDL) before they marched in a neighbouring town.

Members of the EDL were forced to meet at The Station pub in Knebworth before their rally in Stevenage on Saturday after a number of the town’s pubs shut for the day.

A spokesman for The Station said: “We would like to reassure our customers that we do not align ourselves to any political party or pressure group and are proud of our culture of respect. Furthermore, we have a strict policy against discrimination of any kind. When it became apparent that the booking was for the EDL, we sought police advice and on that advice, kept the business open.

“We pride ourselves on providing a safe, welcoming, environment at The Station and do not tolerate any behaviour in the pub that could affect the enjoyment of our customers.”

An estimated 300 EDL members met in Stevenage for the demonstration. Spokesman Mark Robinson announced their intention to return “in six weeks”. They have yet to officially liaise with the police for their return.