British Democratic Party candidate Kai Stephens, who lives in Norwich, was among canvassers who tried to unfurl a banner reading "Save Our Nation – Remigration" at Clacton Pier on Saturday afternoon.

Kai Stephens (Image: British Democrats / X)

They also had smoke flares in their bags, although Mr Stephens, 22, said they intended to use those at a nearby stone bridge, not on the wooden pier.

But the group's actions prompted an intervention from security guards, who asked them to leave the pier, which first opened in 1871.

Clacton Pier then issued a statement condemning the group's actions.

It stated: "Kai Stephens and members of the British Democrats party entered Clacton Pier today without permission, carrying pyrotechnics and a large banner which they attempted to hang from the pier.

"Clacton Pier strongly condemns these actions.

"Bringing pyrotechnics onto the........

© Eastern Daily Press