The nonsense explanation I was given was to detect weapons to prevent violence. But as I pointed to the officers, that was an odd basis to search me on exit!

To the British People – Realise that Labour are the new authoritarian fascists and never vote them into office again.

There was a letter in the Indy yesterday from a man who, as a solicitor, spent many hours in the magistrates court in the 1980s, mixing with police officers among others. “During the miners’ strike of 1984 one police constable in particular would rub his hands in glee at the thought of the massive overtime payments he would receive for policing the miners, while also being able to bash a miner with his baton without the fear of retaliation or retribution.”

Around this time, I can recall overhearing, in a cafe in Pontardawe, local trade unionists exchanging experiences of policing at a recent picket. No numbers had been visible on uniforms, and one policeman had been seen to be checking registration numbers of parked cars. Those which were from out of area had their windscreens smashed.

We had a huge march, all very good-natured, the police ranged from friendly to o.k. to p****ed off but correct. In fact it was such good fun I did the march twice, first with the Lib Dem contingent, then I doubled back and did it again with a bunch of Aberystwyth students!

Not sure the police would take kindly to doubling back these days ……..