The English Defence League (EDL) has described Walthamstow as "Islamist Bandit Country" ahead of a planned march in E17 on Saturday.

There was widespread criticism of the demonstration against the "Islamification of Britain" when it was announced on April 2, with accusations it was an attempt to divide the community.

In a provacative statement released by the EDL yesterday (May 4), the group claim it has specifically chosen to march through Walthamstow because it is "Islamist Bandit Country".

The EDL called the area a "notorious Islamist stronghold" and warned followers that they anticipate a hostile reaction from leftist political groups and the local Muslim community.

The event is a repeat of the EDL's march along Forest Road, in 2012, when a number of arrests were made as a counter demonstration took place.

The EDL statement added: "There will be numerous women, children and OAPs among us and we need to ensure everyone’s safety."

Opposition to the EDL, including Church of England vicars and members of the Muslim Council of Britain, have signed a statement urging a peaceful response to the march.

It said: "Here in Waltham Forest we have shown that if you want to defeat fascism you cannot ignore it and hope that it will go away. Instead, you must challenge its politics of hate, expose the racist lies, and stand united against it.

"So, on Saturday 9 May, we will again take to the streets in peaceful united protest to defend and celebrate our multicultural home. We urge everyone to join with us to send our message loud and strong: the fascist EDL is never welcome here."

A Metropolitan Police spokesman said a response to the march was still being planned.

He said: "We can confirm we have been contacted by a group who are organising their plans for a march on May 9 in Walthamstow.

"Discussions are currently ongoing between us and the organisers."