Trade unionists are voting to support UAF officer Martin Smith as he campaigns to clear his name, following his conviction for assaulting a police officer.

Martin, who is also national coordinator of Love Music Hate Racism, was arrested at last year’s protest against BNP leader Nick Griffin’s appearance on the BBC Question Time programme.

Magistrates convicted him on the word of a single police officer, despite the lack of evidence against him. He has been sentenced to a 12-month community order, with 80 hours’ unpaid work, and has been fined £450.

Martin maintains his innocence and will appeal against the verdict.

In Islington, north London, the National Union of Teachers branch has sent a message of solidarity and invited Martin to speak at its next meeting. Local NUT groups in Islington have already met and voted to give Martin their backing.

Teachers’ reps from City and Islington Sixth Form College NUT group said:

NUT members unanimously agreed to send a message of support to Martin Smith and to back his appeal. We will not allow protest against the fascists to be criminalised. Interestingly, because this was the first meeting of the year, not only was it very well attended, there was a wide spread of opinion so the unanimous vote was particularly significant.

The teachers agreed to take up a collection at the college as well as call for an official donation of £500 from their union branch.

Other union activists are also backing Martin. Dick Pole, chair of the GMB NW London branch sent this message:

GMB NW London branch officers offer full support to Martin Smith and send solidarity greetings for the fight against fascism. If possible we would welcome a speaker from you to our next branch meeting. Best wishes.

And Sheffield DWP HQ PCS branch said:

Our branch, Sheffield DWP HQ PCS branch, wishes you well and would like to give our greetings and solidarity to you. It is quite clear this disgraceful conviction of yours shows the struggle against the far right is also a struggle against the establishment – who through your conviction have demonstrated they are happy to protect a bunch of violent thugs. Let the struggle continue!