TOMMY Robinson joined hundreds of people in support of a young Barrow woman who is at the centre of sexual assault claims.

Protesters gathered in the town's Hollywood Retail Park tonight before an organised convoy to Ulverston and back.

A viral social media post, published by the young woman, has been shared thousands of times and has led to a groundswell of support.

Organisers of the rally had agreed a route with police.

Videos shared from the scene showed very little social distancing among the hundreds gathered.

A statement posted by the family of the woman posted on a page set up to support her said: "We have heard rumours that Tommy Robinson is in town.

"We want to make it clear that this has nothing to do with us and we do not want him involved.

"We are a peaceful family, who condemns any form of racial hatred. We are appealing for calm from the good people of Barrow. Thank you again so much for all your support."

Barrow MP Simon Fell added: 'I see that Mr Yaxley-Lennon has arrived in town. A deeply unhelpful intervention that will only increase tensions in our community at the worst possible time.  We didn't fall for his pitch last May when he turned up looking for votes to become an MEP. Nor shall we now.'