Anti-vaxx protesters stormed Milton Keynes Theatre and a test and trace site in Central Milton Keynes today.
Their arrival at the theatre came during the interval of the matinee performance of Jack and the Beanstalk, the family pantomime starring dance troupe, Diversity.
Anti-vaxx activist Piers Corbyn - who led the 'We Do Not Consent to 5G Milton Keynes' rally in 2020 - was among those attending the protest at the theatre.
Organisers called it a peaceful protest, but one theatre-goer told Total MK that their manner was 'aggressive and menacing' and that customers and staff had been left in shock following the incident.
One eye-witness said: “I didn’t understand the nonsense that was being spouted by the deranged leaders of this farce, I’m sure the scared children didn’t either.”
Addressing those responsible for the disruption, they added: “Perhaps your delusions extend as far as being proud of yourselves. Sad enough that you probably believe whatever it was supposed to be about, even more sad that you apparently revel in disturbing what might possibly be the only fun day out a family might have this festive season."
In a statement issued online, Milton Keynes Theatre said: “A group of protestors forced their way into our foyer during the matinee. Although we respect the right to choose whether to have a vaccination, we rebuke the actions taken that saw our staff and patrons frightened and assaulted.
“At a time when customers should be enjoying the fun and excitement of panto, it’s sad to see the visit for our customers marred in this way. We praise the efforts of our staff this afternoon in what was a very difficult situation and thank our customers for their support.”
Shocking images and video footage taken at the testing site show protestors shouting 'shame on you' at centre staff, and waving placards with messages including 'Boris Lied People Died' and 'Don't Jab Our Kids.'
The protestors can be seen intimidating staff, ripping down signs and allegedly stealing medical supplies.
Ben Everitt, MP for Milton Keynes North called the scenes 'Utterly unacceptable.'
He said: “The staff & volunteers at our vax centres do an amazing job. Nobody deserves this at work.
“I hope Thames Valley Police get the evidence needed to bring these morons to justice.”
A spokesman for Thames Valley Police said it is reviewing the events: “We are aware of an anti-vaccination protest in Milton Keynes today.
"We're currently reviewing the activity for any criminal offences and will take swift action if any have been committed. To report information, please call 101 or report online with reference 604 29/12/2021.”
The Prime Minister was also in Milton Keynes this morning. He attended a testing site at Walton Hall Campus.
Image: Richard Hedge