‘I just wanted to go home. I just don’t feel safe’

SOME claimed it was about patriotism, others free speech, but for one Newcastle businesswoman Saturday's anti-immigration protest brought nothing but fear and intimidation to the city where she lives and works.

- SOPHIE DOUGHTY

Hundreds took to the streets this weekend to voice their views while waving England and Union flags.

The demonstration, organised by supporters of UKIP, turned what should have been a normal day at work for nail technician Hilda Teh into a nightmare, which made her question whether she should leave the city that has been her home for almost 20 years.

Now the 42-year-old, from Malaysia, has lifted the lid on what the recent display of hostility towards people from other countries that has swept the UK is really like for immigrants who have built lives here.

Hilda said: "I'm not from here and I want to go home. My husband is from Newcastle, it’s been home for a long time, but I just don’t feel safe now."

Hilda, who lives in Newbiggin Hall, first came to Newcastle as a student 19 years ago and settled here after a marrying a man from the city. Around nine years she setup Hex Nails. Based in Newcastle's Carliol Square, Hilda describes her salon as being an inclusive LGBT-QIA+ friendly safe space.

However, prejudice has sadly been part of Hilda's life throughout her time in Newcastle.