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  • "I can't help but think that if a few more people got off their backsides and protested about the wrongs of society then things may change for the better. I don't entirely agree with what I see the aims of the protesters as being but I do admire that they are willing to endure some hardship and ill feeling in order to draw attention to their views.

    I wonder what "the taxpayer" will do with this space now?"
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Occupy Bradford protesters explain why they are camping in city square

8:10am Thursday 3rd November 2011 in Bradford By Tanya O'Rourke

A young protester listens A young protester listens

On the eve of a court hearing which could see Bradford Council reclaim possession of a part of Centenary Square from the Occupy Bradford group, the Telegraph & Argus talked to the protesters about what motivated them to set up camp there.

A core of about 20 people are present at the Bradford protest – which is one of 900 across the world including those in Wall Street, New York, and at St Paul’s Cathedral in London.

The Bradford group, which set up its tents and marquee on Friday, has no leader. Meetings are held regularly where people can express their agreement or otherwise, with decisions through sign language.

Andrew Wild, 26, who has a degree in theology, said: “We’re not anti-capitalists. Some of us are, some of us aren’t. What we share is a feeling that economic and political institutions are being run by a small elite who control the wealth and the flow of wealth.

“This is causing problems for 99 per cent of people at the moment who are having services cut back, who are struggling to live on less and who are increasingly becoming angry because they feel their voices are not being heard.”

He said first and foremost the group wants to encourage conversation, between themselves and the authorities, and with people who want to share their stories.

  • Read more on this story in today's T&A

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