POLICE will not apply to ban an anti-Islam group from holding a protest outside a mosque in the run-up to Christmas.

Stop Islamisation of Europe (SIOE) was unable to hold its last demonstration after thousands of people filled the streets outside Harrow Central Mosque before they arrived on September 11.

They intend to return to hold a second rally on Sunday, December 13, and Unite Against Fascism (UAF) hopes to organise another counter demonstration if they go ahead with the plans.

Police say they have received notification from SIOE that they intend to stage the protest but say they can do nothing to stop it.

Will Goddard, a spokesman for Harrow police, said: “At the earliest opportunity we contacted our partners including Harrow Central Mosque and Harrow Council to make them aware of this notification.

“We are not seeking to ban the proposed protest as there is no legislative basis to do so.

“Neither the police nor the Home Secretary have any power to ban static demonstrations aside from those on private property.

“We will attempt to work with the organisers of all protests to provide a proportionate and appropriate police response, to ensure the safety of both local people and the protesters and to minimise the disruption to day-to-day life in Harrow.”