Nine arrested as group 'celebrates' Hitler's birthday with swastika cake
The arrests came after the Manchester Evening News reported the British Movement members had gathered at the Duke of Edinburgh pub in Royton, Oldham and posed for photos with Nazi flags.
One photo, reported to have been posted on social media, appeared to have been altered to include a black and white photo of Hitler, while another showed a cake with a swastika iced on to it.
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A website for the northern region of the group, which describes itself as "a force for the preservation of White Aryan Culture", said members had gathered on a "gorgeous sunny afternoon" to celebrate the 136th birthday of "Uncle A".
The post, about the activities of the group over the Easter weekend, said: "It certainly didn't take long for the dimly lit interior of the Oldham boozer to be filled with the warm laughter of comrades old and new. Tables were filled with a plethora of drinks: frosty pints of beer, fruity cocktails, schooners, and birthday cake!"
It described the celebration as "one of many more to come".
Greater Manchester Police said nine people were arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of Section 18 Public Order Act offences, which include displaying written material that is threatening, abusive or insulting, intended to stir up racial hatred.
A force spokesman said officers attended addresses in Southport, Rochdale, Bolton, Trafford and Stockport and recovered imitation firearms, weapons including swords and a crossbow, and Nazi memorabilia and materials.
Counter Terrorism Policing North West offered advice on some of the materials seized, police said.
Explosive ordnance disposal teams were also deployed after the recovery of a suspected grenade at a property in Bolton, but the item was later declared safe, according to police.
Assistant Chief Constable Steph Parker said: "Whilst our investigation is still in its early stages, we do not believe there to be a risk to the wider public."
She added: "We must take action when concerns are raised, and where weapons are suspected, to ensure people are free to live without fear of intimidation or harm.
"Public safety is at the forefront of our investigation and, as always, we ask that you remain vigilant and if you have any information or concerns, then to contact us."
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