More than 200 people linked arms in a human chain in Whitechapel last night in a show of solidarity against racism.

Members from Tower Hamlets Stand up to Racism and United East End held plaquards and heard speeches outside the East London mosque.

April 3, which was dubbed ‘Punish a Muslim day’ in a hateful letter campaign, saw anti-racism demonstrations held across the country.

Sheila McGregor, convenor of the Tower Hamlets Stand up to Racism group, organised the gathering after a former student of hers contacted her, admitting she was afraid to go outside.

Sheila said: “We need to combat all forms of racism. We couldn’t let the vile hate leaflet ‘Punish a Muslim Day’ for April 3 go without organising opposition to it. One of the lessons of the Holocaust is that we need to challenge racism every step of the way.”

There were also meetings on the steps of Islington town hall, outside Stratford station, and in Haringey.