A team of anti-racism campaigners were in south Durham yesterday amid fears far-right parties could capitalise on the expenses scandal.
The Hope Not Hate bus was outside Spennymoor’s Town Hall on Saturday in a bid to encourage people to celebrate the country’s diversity.
The campaigners handed out leaflets about far-right groups such as the BNP before heading to Newcastle city centre on Sunday.
Trade unions and anti-fascist groups are also pushing their message in the North-East ahead of the European elections on Thursday June 4.
Nick Lowles, of the Hope not Hate campaign, said: "As fears grow that far-right parties might benefit from the crisis engulfing Westminster, the bus is more vital than ever.
"It's vital we spread a positive message about our wonderfully diverse country."
Kevin Rowan, Northern TUC regional secretary, said: "The bus, and the Hope not Hate campaign itself is a fantastic addition to the ongoing fight against racism and fascism in our region.
"We have been successful in keeping our region BNP free so far and this leg of the tour will emphasise how important it is to make sure people vote in the forthcoming elections on June 4 to keep it that way."
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