A plaque commemorating the battle of Lewisham was unveiled yesterday.

The event was organised by Lewisham Council and Goldsmiths Universtiy to mark the 40-year anniversary of violent clashes between fascists and anti-fascists.

Councillor Brenda Dacres was invited to speak at the event.

Cllr Dacres said in a statement: “As one of the New Cross councillors, it was a real honour to speak on behalf of our community at the commemoration of the Battle of Lewisham.

“Forty years ago today, our community stood together against fascism and racism.

“The vile National Front were on the rise, and they had planned a march through Lewisham.

“They picked our community because they hated everything that we represented – our diversity and our solidarity.”

News Shopper: Protestors gather at what turned in to the Battle of Lewisham. Credit: Chris Schwartz

Protestors gather at what turned in to the Battle of Lewisham. Credit: Chris Schwartz

Councillor Alan Hall told of his memories of the clashes.

He said: “I was there on the day as an 11-year-old and was lucky not to have been caught up in it.

“My parents went on the march to oppose the National Front in Lewisham and I had been with them earlier but they sent me home.

“However, I secretly stayed because I wanted to see what was happening and saw police horses going up Lewisham High Street.

“The day was a turning point in opposing the alarming rise of the National Front and we owe a debt of gratitude to those who bravely opposed the violent thugs of the NF.

“We must continue to be vigilant against racism and fascism in all its forms as Lewisham’s strength today lies in its diversity and when we are always better when we stand united together.”

News Shopper: Bishop of Southwark addressing the protesters at Ladywell Fields before the march Credit: Chris Schwartz

Bishop of Southwark addressing the protesters at Ladywell Fields before the march Credit: Chris Schwartz

The Battle of Lewisham took place on August 13, 1977 when 500 members of the far-right National Front group tried to march across New Cross to Lewisham.

Around 4,000 people engaged in counter demonstrations. Clashes between the two groups and the police led to 214 people being arrested as well as 56 officers being injured.