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Raise the Colours leader attends Reform UK conference while on bail

Nigel Farage pledged legal support to Ryan Bridge, who is currently facing multiple legal challenges.

The short version

  • Ryan Bridge, head of the Raise the Colours flag campaign, was granted access to the Reform UK conference and stated he received an invitation.[The Guardian]
  • Party leader Nigel Farage publicly praised the flag campaign and offered legal assistance to Bridge.[The Guardian]
  • Bridge remains on bail amid an arrest over alleged aggravated harassment and an upcoming trial following a not-guilty plea to common assault.[The Guardian]

Key facts

  • Ryan Bridge, the leader of the flag campaign group Raise the Colours, gained access to the Reform UK annual conference.[The Guardian]
  • Nigel Farage praised Bridge's campaign during a conference session and offered to provide legal assistance.[The Guardian]
  • Bridge is on police bail following an arrest on suspicion of causing racially and religiously aggravated harassment, alarm, or distress.[The Guardian]
  • Bridge pleaded not guilty to a common assault charge in Brighton magistrates court and was granted bail ahead of trial.[The Guardian]
  • Bridge was previously among 10 activists banned from France after attempting to disrupt migrant Channel crossings.[The Guardian]

What remains uncertain

  • Reform UK did not respond to requests for comment regarding Bridge's attendance or the nature of his invitation.[The Guardian]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.