Britain First Activists Unfurl Controversial Anti-Starmer Banner Over Manchester Dual Carriageway

Salford, Manchester – Far-right group Britain First today unfurled a massive 40-foot banner bearing the expletive, "Keir Starmer is a wanker", over a busy dual carriageway in Salford, Manchester, during peak rush hour. The action, described by the group as a blow for free speech, targeted the Labour leader with explicit language above the East Lancs Road, drawing immediate attention from commuters.

In a video shared online, Britain First activist Ashlea Simon addressed the camera from the bridge, explaining the motivation behind the provocative display. "So we're here in Salford today, we're on a bridge on the East Lancs and we've got a massive 40 foot banner that says Keir Starmer's a wanker", Ashlea stated.

😂 BRITAIN FIRST UNFURLS A HUGE 'KEIR STARMER IS A WANKER!' BANNER DURING MANCHESTER RUSH HOUR

Britain First activists struck a blow for free speech by unfurling a massive 'Keir Starmer is a wanker!' banner above a bustling dual carriageway in Manchester during peak rush hour. pic.twitter.com/sV1pNXU3ze

— Britain First (@BFirstParty) August 27, 2025

She acknowledged the strong language, adding, "Although that's not the language we'd usually use, that is the sentiment the entire country is feeling right now. They're let down, they're fed up, they're angry, it's what people are chanting at concerts, at protests, because people are fed up".

Ashlea claimed that the frequent car horns heard in the background of her video indicated public agreement with the banner's message. "Keir Starmer isn't representing the British public anymore and as you can hear from all the beeping today, people agree with this message", she asserted. "People are fed up, they want rid of him and they want British people put first in Britain once again. That's what people are craving and desperately".

Concluding her statement, Ashlea positioned Britain First as the answer to this perceived public dissatisfaction. "You see it all over the country with the raising of the colours and the flags. People are fed up, they're looking for a patriotic alternative and Britain First is that alternative. We are nationalists that love our people and love our nation".

The display of such explicitly worded banners in public spaces often sparks debate regarding freedom of expression versus public decency and potential incitement. While Britain First framed the action as an expression of popular discontent and a strike for free speech, such demonstrations frequently draw criticism for their use of offensive language and the group's controversial far-right associations.

Authorities have not yet commented on whether the display constituted a public order offense or if any action will be taken. The incident is likely to reignite discussions about political protest methods and the boundaries of public discourse ahead of future elections.