ABOUT 70 people turned out in the rain to join a Bradford rally against austerity.

Bradford People’s Coalition Against the Cuts (BPCAC) organised the protest in Centenary Square and had initially expected between 200 and 300 people to turn out.

The peaceful demonstration was called on the day of the State Opening of Parliament with a Conservative Government in place after David Cameron secured a majority in the General Election earlier this month.

It was first time at a rally for Sharn Race, 46, of Allerton, who works as a facility officer for a social enterprise in the city.

MORE TOP STORIES

 

She said: "I'm here because all these cuts just aren't right. I think it's going to affect people in ways we can't imagine yet."

Also in the crowd was 58-year-old Lynda Statham, of Eccleshill, who works in adult care.

She said: "I'm seriously concerned what's going to happen if they cut adult services back and leave just the vital parts behind.

"Those who need care also need time and compassion - not just an efficient service. That's why I'm here."