EDL Link with Mob's Rochdale Rampage over Rape Trial

Far-right group the English Defence League (EDL) has denied any involvement in a mob's violent rampage in Rochdale - but the thugs were heard chanting EDL and its members have welcomed the attack.

Tensions in the Rochdale community have escalated while a trial of 11 local Asian men is being heard at Liverpool crown court.

A mob of 200 people, who were heard chanting "EDL", smashed the windows of a takeaway in the Heywood area said to be linked to the trial. The address was posted on the EDL website.

Missiles, including bricks, were hurled at police officers, injuring one. Three police vehicles and a car belonging to a member of the public car were damaged.

An update on the official EDL Facebook page blames "locals" for the violence. However, an update on the same page minutes afterwards gloats about the attack.

EDL members posting on the group's forum welcomed the attacks.

One user called "Leeson EDL Murray" expressed strong anti-Muslim sentiment and gleefully predicts a "civil war".

"It is brilliant to hear about people in Rochdale coming out and making a stand," he said.

Another wrote that the Rochdale unrest was "inspiring", with one user adding that "it is about f*****g time" and "well done to all those involved".

A 35-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of a public order offence and police assault and a 14-year-old boy was arrested for causing danger to a public highway.

"Greater Manchester Police is aware of the tensions in the borough that have come about because of an ongoing court case in Liverpool," Assistant Chief Constable Terry Sweeney said.

"We will maintain and increase a police presence in the coming weeks to keep up our reassurance. We ask that the community acts responsibly during this difficult time."

Sweeney added that the police were monitoring social media sites and urged anyone with information to get in touch.

The EDL has planned a demonstration in nearby Hyde on 25 February.