POLITICAL activist Tony Nuttall - who was asked to leave the public gallery during last week’s annual full council meeting - said it is ‘important’ that residents have their views heard.

Tony, a member of Barnsley Stand Up To Racism, was one of a number of protesters who campaigned outside the town hall ahead of the meeting.

He entered the public gallery to view the first meeting of the Reform tenure, and was one of many to ‘boo’ and shout ‘shame’ as the new-look council made decisions.

He was eventually asked to leave by security but believes that local people should be able to voice their concerns during meetings.

Tony told the Chronicle: “Stand Up To Racism had a small protest outside the town hall before the council meeting.

“This was to say that people who are fleeing war and famine around the world should be welcomed in Barnsley, in line with our past traditions.

“The new Reform mayor has already let these traditions down by declining to attend Refugee Week this month.

“In the public gallery afterwards, quite a few people protested against the behaviour of the Reform councillors in the meeting.

“Following comments made by me and others from the gallery, I was asked to leave.

“But the important thing was that people had been able to make their views heard, against racism and for an inclusive community.”