Crowds turned up in Swindon to protest in support of the Palestinian people on Wednesday despite heavy rain.

The rally was held at 5.30pm on Wednesday outside Regent Circus on Victoria Road.

A strong turnout was observed with more and more demonstrators linking up with the group as the evening went on.

The gathering was called after the conflict continues to escalate, and with an invasion of the Gaza Strip widely reported to be imminent.

Tensions had raised since militants from the Hamas group, which has been designated a terrorist organisation, launched an attack on Israel on October 7, killing 

READ MORE: Palestine demonstration in town centre goes ahead despite heavy rain

One protestor in attendance was Swindon resident Waleed Ahmad who chose to come out in the rain to support the Palestinian cause.

“The weather is bad but it just shows people’s commitment that they are still prepared to come out in bad weather especially with how bad it is in Gaza at the moment,” said the 51-year-old.

“There is commitment to the cause and it’s a great turn out and I think a lot of people are very passionate about freedom for the Palestinians.

“It’s about showing our solidarity and our support for the cause of their freedom.”

Signs reading ‘We stand with Palestine’ were held aloft while chants of ‘What do we want? Peace. When do we want it? Now.’ were sung around Regent Circus.

The demonstration remained peaceful as the protesters remained at the site late into the evening despite the heavy rain.