Anti-golliwog protest takes place in Sutton High Street (From Sutton Guardian)

There were only about 5 anti-Golliwog protesters, this proves without a doubt that Golliwogs are not offensive, long live the Golliwog.

What a big protest - NOT
Now run along and do what you are paid to do!
I Spose we have to pay your wages for carrying out your stupid Demo today ???

If you feel that this product should be reported as being "rascist" then please at least be able to spell the word before using it in your publication. Do your reporters actually know what the word even means?

Get well soon Louise Bennett and your husband too. It is so unfair you suffered all this stress from a Sutton Councillor of all people. Thank you Sutton Police for keeping our High Street open and enabling us to go about our business there today without fear. You have a very tough job keeping the peace with such widely differing opinion but you are fair to all factions. I hope the doll trade picks up as a little bit of compensation for all the aggravation but even that is no good at the expense of one's health. Well Cllr. Lester what's your next community project?

Well that did go well didn't it Councillor Golloway, less then a handful of protesters turned up! And your next community project will be........

My best wishes to the owners of Memory Lane, you certainly didn't deserve all the worry and stress this man has caused you.

What went well is the fact that the story has attracted media attention. What I also find interesting is the fact that the publication of this story has put Sutton on the map for the wrong reasons. Those people that are looking at numbers of protesters as some sort of victory, need to bear in mind, that the number of responses to the protest have highlighted the issue, more than the protesters ever expected.

@Liz! I hand full of protesters and lots of coverage in the press. I am sure this issue will put Sutton on the map for the very WRONG reasons. Rest assured! The matter is not over! How can it be?

@Liz! I hand full of protesters and lots of coverage in the press. I am sure this issue will put Sutton on the map for the very WRONG reasons. Rest assured! The matter is not over! How can it be?

The best way to resolve this matter is to sue the centre owner, for allowing the sale of such items in the shopping centre in the first place!
By the way all movements or protest start with small numbers, then it begins to grow like wild fire!

There were two world wars against the Nazi! In fact, if the Brits lost, German would be the mother tongue of the UK. I am sure that many are supporting the soldiers abroad, against terrorism, but yet so many Sutton residents, are willing to support the racist golliwog and the Memory Lane shop in their own backyard. In reality, those that support the golliwog, are harking back to the days, when racism, went un challenged. Well hear what? Those days are over!

The empire days are over. Britain no longer rules, the waves! The slaves are free and are coming to live next door to many of you, and in fact they will marry your daughters and in many cases, your daughters will marry Black men. Rest assured, I will even go as far as saying that Sutton, will eventually become like Southall and Brixton. So it's only a matter of time before Memory Lane! Becomes a memory!

There were two world wars against the Nazi! In fact, if the Brits lost, German would be the mother tongue of the UK. I am sure that many are supporting the soldiers abroad, against terrorism, but yet so many Sutton residents, are willing to support the racist golliwog and the Memory Lane shop in their own backyard. In reality, those that support the golliwog, are harking back to the days, when racism, went un challenged. Well hear what? Those days are over!

The empire days are over. Britain no longer rules, the waves! The slaves are free and are coming to live next door to many of you, and in fact they will marry your daughters and in many cases, your daughters will marry Black men. Rest assured, I will even go as far as saying that Sutton, will eventually become like Southall and Brixton. So it's only a matter of time before Memory Lane! Becomes a memory!

Michael Pantlin wrote:
Get well soon Louise Bennett and your husband too. It is so unfair you suffered all this stress from a Sutton Councillor of all people. Thank you Sutton Police for keeping our High Street open and enabling us to go about our business there today without fear. You have a very tough job keeping the peace with such widely differing opinion but you are fair to all factions. I hope the doll trade picks up as a little bit of compensation for all the aggravation but even that is no good at the expense of one's health. Well Cllr. Lester what's your next community project?

The empire days are over. Britain no longer rules, the waves! The slave sare free and are coming to live next door to many of you, and in fact they will marry your daughters and in many cases, your daughters will marry Black men. Rest assured, I will even go as far as saying that Sutton, will eventually become like Southall and Brixton. So it's only a matter of time before Memory Lane! Becomes a memory!

Michael Pantlin wrote:
Get well soon Louise Bennett and your husband too. It is so unfair you suffered all this stress from a Sutton Councillor of all people. Thank you Sutton Police for keeping our High Street open and enabling us to go about our business there today without fear. You have a very tough job keeping the peace with such widely differing opinion but you are fair to all factions. I hope the doll trade picks up as a little bit of compensation for all the aggravation but even that is no good at the expense of one's health. Well Cllr. Lester what's your next community project?

The empire days are over. Britain no longer rules, the waves! The slave sare free and are coming to live next door to many of you, and in fact they will marry your daughters and in many cases, your daughters will marry Black men. Rest assured, I will even go as far as saying that Sutton, will eventually become like Southall and Brixton. So it's only a matter of time before Memory Lane! Becomes a memory!

Suttonone wrote:
What a big protest - NOT
Now run along and do what you are paid to do!
I Spose we have to pay your wages for carrying out your stupid Demo today ???

If that stupid shop did not sell such racist material, then you would not have to pay for anything. If you want some one to complain to. Well Louise Bennett, the owner of Memory Lane, should be your first point of communication!

Suttonone wrote:
What a big protest - NOT
Now run along and do what you are paid to do!
I Spose we have to pay your wages for carrying out your stupid Demo today ???

Sutton! The protest may be stupid to you, but it got you angry enough to stress you point here. So clearly, the job has been done. By the way, the protesters, did run along! All the way to LBC Radio! So thank you Sutton for alowing your Memory Lane Shop for putting you on the map for the wrong reasons. I am sure the Olympic athlestes coming over next year, will be more than happy to know about your store. It's only a matter of time before this story goes national, then international! looool.

Liz2076 wrote:
Well that did go well didn't it Councillor Golloway, less then a handful of protesters turned up! And your next community project will be........

My best wishes to the owners of Memory Lane, you certainly didn't deserve all the worry and stress this man has caused you.

The owner of the shop should be ashamed of herself. The stress she caused, is nothing compared to the stress that Black people have had to endure as a consequence of Golliwog or Gollidoll! Regardless, of name changes, the sentiment is the same. Racist material, sold by people with racist views, and some just plain ignorant. Well here this. Slavery and the empire is over. Black people have a voice and will always stand up against injustice and so will a few decent white people!

Tony L Martin wrote:
There were only about 5 anti-Golliwog protesters, this proves without a doubt that Golliwogs are not offensive, long live the Golliwog.

It's not the number of protesters that counts, it's the fact that the issue has grabbed the attention of the national press. Dont't be short sighted. The mere fact the protest went ahead says it all. Lester won. The shop may still sell their crap today, but bear one thing in mind, what makes you think the protest is over! Do not be fooled sir! Do not make that mistake. If you know how Black folks operate, when it comes to injustice, you know we always have a back up plan. The protest was just an acid test. So for all you number counting, just know that behind the five are another five hundred, preparing for the next time. looool.

Liz2076 wrote:
Well that did go well didn't it Councillor Golloway, less then a handful of protesters turned up! And your next community project will be........

My best wishes to the owners of Memory Lane, you certainly didn't deserve all the worry and stress this man has caused you.

38am Sat 8 Oct 11

There were two world wars against the Nazi! In fact, if the Brits lost, German would be the mother tongue of the UK. I am sure that many are supporting the soldiers abroad, against terrorism, but yet so many Sutton residents, are willing to support the racist golliwog and the Memory Lane shop in their own backyard. In reality, those that support the golliwog, are harking back to the days, when racism, went un challenged. Well hear what? Those days are over!

The empire days are over. Britain no longer rules, the waves! The slaves are free and are coming to live next door to many of you, and in fact they will marry your daughters and in many cases, your daughters will marry Black men. Rest assured, I will even go as far as saying that Sutton, will eventually become like Southall and Brixton. So it's only a matter of time before Memory Lane! Becomes a memory!

The shop owner was not sick! She decided to close the shop for fear that people may decide to storm her shop! That was not the intention. But I can tell you one thing. It would be hard for the police to stop protesters from going into the shop, if it was open, especially if the person was white!

Suttonone wrote:
What a big protest - NOT
Now run along and do what you are paid to do!
I Spose we have to pay your wages for carrying out your stupid Demo today ???

There may have been five visible protesters, but rest assured, there were more than thirty WHITE spotters watching out for a counter protest, taking long range pictures of EDL supporters watching the protesters!. The protesters have been taught well by the racist EDL, BNP and NF! Do you really think these protesters would come into an area such as Sutton without a back up plan? Think again people! Think again!

Suttonone wrote:
What a big protest - NOT
Now run along and do what you are paid to do!
I Spose we have to pay your wages for carrying out your stupid Demo today ???

There may have been five visible protesters, but rest assured, there were more than thirty WHITE spotters watching out for a counter protest, taking long range pictures of EDL supporters watching the protesters!. The protesters have been taught well by the racist EDL, BNP and NF! Do you really think these protesters would come into an area such as Sutton without a back up plan? Think again people! Think again!

The Three Golliwogs (Blyton, 1944)

"Once the three bold Golliwogs, Golly, Woggie, and ****, decided to go for a walk to Bumble-Bee Common. Golly wasn't quite ready so Woggie and **** said they would start off without him, and Golly would catch them up as soon as he could. So off went Woggie and ****, arm-in-arm, singing merrily their favourite song - which, as you may guess, was 'Ten Little **** Boys'."

Still think golliwogs aren't racist?!?

Docotr1 is clearly a person who hates Britain and all of us and I seriously doubt he is British with his anti-Britian and anti white racist comments. Doctor1 and the like are happily wanting to kill off this country and all the freedom our fathers fought for. If he hates us so much please get back on the boat and stop destroying our communities. We surely don't want Sutton to be the next Brixton and our daughters rest assured will not be marrying the likes of racist British hating thugs you describe and love. Doctor1 should be kissing our feet to be able to live in our country, not knocking it.

Britain needs to be reminded, that the reason why minorites come here is because the British keep stealing from the countries where these people are coming from. So hell yes! They are coming to milk you generous welfare system, and occupy your houses, and even take your jobs. Yes, these are the East Europeans!

The British were fighting to ensure that the Germans did not take over their empire! Simple. Let me expain another point, so many of the people who say they are English are more likely to be from Germany, Sweden or Denmark. By the way, the mixed raced community, is the fastest growing community in England, so yes we are going to take your women, and turn this country into Brazil. All the old cinemas and churches wil be turned into Mosques and Synagouges!

Britain was exposed in August after the riots, in that all is not well as you would like to think. So if Britain deserves a kicking, hell yes, it should get one, especially, when some of the racist attitudes are still so prevalent today. If you dont like the fact that minorities are coming to invade Sutton, there is always Hampshire! loool

@theavengers

I find your comments offensive and before you ask I am British and white. Most people I know living in Sutton are enlightened, thinking people who binned their golliwog 'toys' and outdated attitudes back in the 1960's!

If you really found the Golliwog offensive, you and your other colleagues, would have stood up and be counted, but no! You stayed away. By doing nothing to stop the sales, you are in fact supporting the actions of the shop!
I stand by my comments!

DOCTOR1 is the best false flag wind-up I've ever seen. Congratulations, top class satire. :)

kebabking wrote:
DOCTOR1 is the best false flag wind-up I've ever seen. Congratulations, top class satire. :)

Why thank you!KEBABKING! Now let me email my contacts in France, about the best places in Sutton to squat for my Somalian friends. I dont think they are into Kebabs! Do you? By the way Curry is the number one UK dish not fish and chips, and reggae reggae sauce, outsells HP Brown Sauce. Also the best UK Athletes are BLACK! So there should be protest to add some Black in the Union Jack!

The protest would have been better supported if it had been held on a weekend day, a lot of people of were working all day Friday (many up in town) and unable to attend, this does not give a true representation of the views of Sutton residents, most I am convinced would never support the sale of golliwogs.

The protest would have been better supported if it had been held on a weekend day, a lot of people of were working all day Friday (many up in town) and unable to attend, this does not give a true representation of the views of Sutton residents, most I am convinced would never support the sale of golliwogs.

Joey66 wrote:
The protest would have been better supported if it had been held on a weekend day, a lot of people of were working all day Friday (many up in town) and unable to attend, this does not give a true representation of the views of Sutton residents, most I am convinced would never support the sale of golliwogs.

Saturday would have been a better day, but due to other deomonstrations in the capital, it was best to make the point on Friday, and plan a bigger demonstation at a later day. The protest yesterday, was just a foreunner, a dry run so to speak. Thanks for your positive view

How many posts does one person need to spout rubbish when one was enough but when I had read ten, I felt my life ebbing away!!!!!The great thing about this country is that we let all views be heard despite how stupid they are. The FACT is the shop is doing nothing illegal and if the owners illness has been caused by these protests the organisers will have a case to answer themselves.I hope Councillor Lester Holloway has not claimed any expenses for the time he was protesting as he was not engaged in Council work at the time.What a joy to live under a Lib Dem regime every one of the a waste of space well done Mr Pantlin as usual !!!!!!!

The great thing about the UK is that people only like to hear views that suit their own interests. While their is nothining illegal about selling the GOLLIWOGS, It's about cultural sensitivity. I guess you would have no problems if I suggested that British soldiers are murders! Well that would be my right. If I said that people who could not see that these dolls are racist that is my right. If I put in a bid to build a mosque in the most expensive area in Sutton, that would be my right. By the way, such rights, that the British denied black people in the colonies for 500 years. In terms of the health of the shop keeper! That is her issue, not the public. She had a choice deal with it Here we go! Blame it on the protesters! Waht kind of legal rubbish are you spouting out! The shopkeeper has a choice. So as far as I am concerned, if she is stressed because she has chosen to stock and sell Golliwogs, it is is her own fault. In terms of claiming expenses, I hope you have paid your council tax! The shop keeper has rights and responsibilities. She made her choice. By the way, the matter is not over. Lester or not. Sutton is going to be on the map! We will make sure that every country in the US knows that Sutton supports the open sale of racist material! Yes! Just see how fast your property and rental prices fall, over one stupid shop keeper! I hope she gets well and soon as well as come to her senses!

LiberalsOut wrote:
How many posts does one person need to spout rubbish when one was enough but when I had read ten, I felt my life ebbing away!!!!!The great thing about this country is that we let all views be heard despite how stupid they are. The FACT is the shop is doing nothing illegal and if the owners illness has been caused by these protests the organisers will have a case to answer themselves.I hope Councillor Lester Holloway has not claimed any expenses for the time he was protesting as he was not engaged in Council work at the time.What a joy to live under a Lib Dem regime every one of the a waste of space well done Mr Pantlin as usual !!!!!!!

If you dont like the Liberals! You can always move out to another area! After all that is your right. Let me tell you one thing! When we start to advertise abroad that Sutton is the best place for minorities to live, you will ask yourselves, why the hell did we let her do it. Bare one thing in mind. Ethnic minorities always enter the most racist areas, take you on board, beat you and build a Mosque as a sign of victory. Look at Thamesmead, Barking, Ilford, Eltham! Have you not sussed it yet. Your constituency has been warned. Get ready for the influx of new minorities, we are not going to run from Sutton, we are going to run to Sutton and turn it into a Labour Constituency! Forget Keeping Sutton White! We are going to make Sutton Brown! You are not even going to see it coming! loooool

Joey66 wrote:
The protest would have been better supported if it had been held on a weekend day, a lot of people of were working all day Friday (many up in town) and unable to attend, this does not give a true representation of the views of Sutton residents, most I am convinced would never support the sale of golliwogs.

Joey66! I tend to agree with you! But clearly, it was those unemployed and older folks that had some serious issues with the protest!

There wouldn't have been a protest if the shop owner had been reasonable instead of digging her heels in for a month, trying to play both heroine against 'political correctness' and innocent victim of race bully!

Thank you! There wouldn't have been a protest if the shop owner had been reasonable instead of digging her heels in for a month, trying to play both heroine against 'political correctness' and innocent victim of race bully!

Tony L Martin wrote:
There were only about 5 anti-Golliwog protesters, this proves without a doubt that Golliwogs are not offensive, long live the Golliwog.

Thank you! There wouldn't have been a protest if the shop owner had been reasonable instead of digging her heels in for a month, trying to play both heroine against 'political correctness' and innocent victim of race bully!

DOCTOR1 wrote:

Tony L Martin wrote:
There were only about 5 anti-Golliwog protesters, this proves without a doubt that Golliwogs are not offensive, long live the Golliwog.

Thank you! There wouldn't have been a protest if the shop owner had been reasonable instead of digging her heels in for a month, trying to play both heroine against 'political correctness' and innocent victim of race bully!

How many EDL, BNP and NF councillors and MP's are there in Sutton? I think the answer is about ZERO! LOOOOL

Well Dr1 -Councillor Holloway you have made it quite clear who you are by answering all the comments you are obviously a very angry tired individual who has a grudge with GREAT BRItAIN. people like you stirring up un needed publicty in SUtton where do you live? Did you claim wages for your protest.I am sure we would all like to see the cost for this. You have made unreasonable accusastions about people you dont even know including myself and my children just because we have a golliwog. I grew up in different countries as my father served in the army for this counrty putting his life at risk he was not raciest and neither am I or my children. You have accussed the shop owners making them ill of being raciest no they are not they are earning a living paying your bloody taxes and wages. Shops now a days sell black and white dolls people and children have a choice of what they want so did you. The shop should be sueing you for what you have tried to do SLANDER them I am sure we would all like to sue you Sutton is one of the best places to bring up your children the guardian quoted only a few weeks ago not now you are hell bent on disfiguring sutton as a nice peaceful town that we are all proud of. LIb dems are certainly out of sutton we wont forget what you or your collugues have done or your . Dont you dare knock on any of our doors for votes. You certainly do not derserve the postion of a councillor no councillor in Sutton has ever behaved in this way why should you. You should be leading an example to our community and children is this how you want our children to look upon us.
I work with in a job which helps others some times saves lives i dont care if they are black white pink or blue a colour means nothing to me my job does. Why should you be offended grow up for goodness sake do some voluntry work help the elderly and more vulnerable people in our community fight for our hospital our dementia homes fight for the people who fought for this country or get out and move on some where else.
London Borough of sutton should be stopping this nonsense going on your are representing them to.
You never replied to my comment earlier what are you doing about gun crime, stabbings and where and what did you do to help the victims of the riots think who are the people who are mostly involved in these crimes.

DOCTOR1 wrote:

Tony L Martin wrote: There were only about 5 anti-Golliwog protesters, this proves without a doubt that Golliwogs are not offensive, long live the Golliwog.

It's not the number of protesters that counts, it's the fact that the issue has grabbed the attention of the national press. Dont't be short sighted. The mere fact the protest went ahead says it all. Lester won. The shop may still sell their crap today, but bear one thing in mind, what makes you think the protest is over! Do not be fooled sir! Do not make that mistake. If you know how Black folks operate, when it comes to injustice, you know we always have a back up plan. The protest was just an acid test. So for all you number counting, just know that behind the five are another five hundred, preparing for the next time. looool.

How do black folks operate? and why were 500 hiding behind 5?

DOCTOR1 wrote:

Michael Pantlin wrote: Get well soon Louise Bennett and your husband too. It is so unfair you suffered all this stress from a Sutton Councillor of all people. Thank you Sutton Police for keeping our High Street open and enabling us to go about our business there today without fear. You have a very tough job keeping the peace with such widely differing opinion but you are fair to all factions. I hope the doll trade picks up as a little bit of compensation for all the aggravation but even that is no good at the expense of one's health. Well Cllr. Lester what's your next community project?

The empire days are over. Britain no longer rules, the waves! The slave sare free and are coming to live next door to many of you, and in fact they will marry your daughters and in many cases, your daughters will marry Black men. Rest assured, I will even go as far as saying that Sutton, will eventually become like Southall and Brixton. So it's only a matter of time before Memory Lane! Becomes a memory!

I beleive what the Doc is trying to say is thank you to the Royal Navy ending the global slave trade.

DOCTOR1 wrote:
There were two world wars against the Nazi! In fact, if the Brits lost, German would be the mother tongue of the UK. I am sure that many are supporting the soldiers abroad, against terrorism, but yet so many Sutton residents, are willing to support the racist golliwog and the Memory Lane shop in their own backyard. In reality, those that support the golliwog, are harking back to the days, when racism, went un challenged. Well hear what? Those days are over! The empire days are over. Britain no longer rules, the waves! The slaves are free and are coming to live next door to many of you, and in fact they will marry your daughters and in many cases, your daughters will marry Black men. Rest assured, I will even go as far as saying that Sutton, will eventually become like Southall and Brixton. So it's only a matter of time before Memory Lane! Becomes a memory!

I know about WW2 but I have know idea about the other world war against the Nazi when was that and who thought?

There are some very angry people posting on this site. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion and it would seem by the comments of 1 individual in particular that their opinion is full of hate and that is a very sad thing. It wasnt only that shop that lost out on Friday. It was their choice to close and if that was due to the worry of any trouble that may have arisen then isnt that just another type of bullying? Other shops in that shopping centre were affected. Some customers stayed out of the centre in fear of trouble starting and therefore business was not good for many more shops due to this expected protest. Maybe talking to the shop owners about the feelings of people who are opposed to the sale of "Gollys" might have had a better outcome for all people and local business' but it is too late for that now. Just one comment to the "troubled" individual posting on here.... please do not judge everyone on what you think is right This country may not be the Great Britian that is once was but many of the people living here are still proud to call it home and anyone not happy with the way life is lived here should perhaps look for pastures new!

DOCTOR1 wrote:

DOCTOR1 wrote:

Tony L Martin wrote:
There were only about 5 anti-Golliwog protesters, this proves without a doubt that Golliwogs are not offensive, long live the Golliwog.

Thank you! There wouldn't have been a protest if the shop owner had been reasonable instead of digging her heels in for a month, trying to play both heroine against 'political correctness' and innocent victim of race bully!

How many EDL, BNP and NF councillors and MP's are there in Sutton? I think the answer is about ZERO! LOOOOL

Typical EDL! Hiding behind old ladies and bus stops and children! How pathetic.

Tony L Martin wrote:

DOCTOR1 wrote:

Michael Pantlin wrote: Get well soon Louise Bennett and your husband too. It is so unfair you suffered all this stress from a Sutton Councillor of all people. Thank you Sutton Police for keeping our High Street open and enabling us to go about our business there today without fear. You have a very tough job keeping the peace with such widely differing opinion but you are fair to all factions. I hope the doll trade picks up as a little bit of compensation for all the aggravation but even that is no good at the expense of one's health. Well Cllr. Lester what's your next community project?

The empire days are over. Britain no longer rules, the waves! The slave sare free and are coming to live next door to many of you, and in fact they will marry your daughters and in many cases, your daughters will marry Black men. Rest assured, I will even go as far as saying that Sutton, will eventually become like Southall and Brixton. So it's only a matter of time before Memory Lane! Becomes a memory!

I beleive what the Doc is trying to say is thank you to the Royal Navy ending the global slave trade.

The Royal Navy did not end the slave, trade. It was due to the fact that slavery was no longer as economically viable as before! So please do not come with this crap that Royal Navy ended slavery! No it did not! It was the decent white people of the time that forced change. The Navy which supported slavery, also helped to end it by orders, not out of conscience. By the way, just because the slave trade ended, that did not mean the slaves were free. Most importantly, the Royal Navy proected merchant ship, which carried their human cargo! So please! Cut the crap, you ignorant racist!

michelle b wrote:
Well Dr1 -Councillor Holloway you have made it quite clear who you are by answering all the comments you are obviously a very angry tired individual who has a grudge with GREAT BRItAIN. people like you stirring up un needed publicty in SUtton where do you live? Did you claim wages for your protest.I am sure we would all like to see the cost for this. You have made unreasonable accusastions about people you dont even know including myself and my children just because we have a golliwog. I grew up in different countries as my father served in the army for this counrty putting his life at risk he was not raciest and neither am I or my children. You have accussed the shop owners making them ill of being raciest no they are not they are earning a living paying your bloody taxes and wages. Shops now a days sell black and white dolls people and children have a choice of what they want so did you. The shop should be sueing you for what you have tried to do SLANDER them I am sure we would all like to sue you Sutton is one of the best places to bring up your children the guardian quoted only a few weeks ago not now you are hell bent on disfiguring sutton as a nice peaceful town that we are all proud of. LIb dems are certainly out of sutton we wont forget what you or your collugues have done or your . Dont you dare knock on any of our doors for votes. You certainly do not derserve the postion of a councillor no councillor in Sutton has ever behaved in this way why should you. You should be leading an example to our community and children is this how you want our children to look upon us.
I work with in a job which helps others some times saves lives i dont care if they are black white pink or blue a colour means nothing to me my job does. Why should you be offended grow up for goodness sake do some voluntry work help the elderly and more vulnerable people in our community fight for our hospital our dementia homes fight for the people who fought for this country or get out and move on some where else.
London Borough of sutton should be stopping this nonsense going on your are representing them to.
You never replied to my comment earlier what are you doing about gun crime, stabbings and where and what did you do to help the victims of the riots think who are the people who are mostly involved in these crimes.

Let's make one thing very clear. This is not Lester Holloway. He tends to deal with issues, directly. I was an observer and was one of the spotters for the famous five. So cut the crap. In terms of shops being closed, and people not coming into the centre, that is utter rubbish. The protest was peaceful and the job was done. Only one shop was closed. That was Memory Lane! So stop lying. Other shops were losing money long before the protest so please cut the crap! In terms of the so called trouble please. There were never going to be more than ten marchers. That was the agreed amount. If we were going to March en masse! It would have been on a Saturday or Sunday! Not a work day! Please open your heads people and think! Now the activists know the score! They now know what to do and who the White EDL spotters are! The issue of Gun and Knife crime, will come to Sutton, but here the deal, it will be more likely to be White on White Crime. I am also of the view that Sutton should restrict drinking times, because of the wasted resources on a local and national level on alcholol related violence! If you want to lead by example get rid of the shop! Simple and show your children that you know better, rathr than reinforcing your racist views regarding the Golliwog or doll! What you fail to realise is this! It is crap like this that has cost lives of many Black people in this country, if you fail to understand that. I feel sorry for you. Let me make it clear. Sutton is not outside the law. You dont have to speak to Lester, you can get rid of him, by doing so SUTTON, WOULD HAVE TRULY SHOWN IT'S RACIST COLOURS!

Tony L Martin wrote:

DOCTOR1 wrote:

Tony L Martin wrote: There were only about 5 anti-Golliwog protesters, this proves without a doubt that Golliwogs are not offensive, long live the Golliwog.

It's not the number of protesters that counts, it's the fact that the issue has grabbed the attention of the national press. Dont't be short sighted. The mere fact the protest went ahead says it all. Lester won. The shop may still sell their crap today, but bear one thing in mind, what makes you think the protest is over! Do not be fooled sir! Do not make that mistake. If you know how Black folks operate, when it comes to injustice, you know we always have a back up plan. The protest was just an acid test. So for all you number counting, just know that behind the five are another five hundred, preparing for the next time. looool.

How do black folks operate? and why were 500 hiding behind 5?

The others Protesters are ready for next time you illiterate! Clearly, I speak your language better than you do!

There is nothing here that can convince me that selling golliwogs is right! Sutton deserved what it got. That is having its racist **** exposed to the whole of London! Sutton will never be the same. All of London, will now see Sutton, more racist than the South East of London. Shame on you Sutton Residents! I look forward to when the Conservative Party starts to move immigrants out of inner London to Sutton! I cant wait for the population to become browner! It will. I cant wait for those Asians to build a Mosque right in the middle of Sutton, its going to happen. As for the people losing money! Who cares. This country has been living on immoral earnings for centuries. Yep, we are going to rape your benefits system, and ensure that we live next door to you. I look forward to living in Sutton! Yep! Gonna change the place big time! So deal with it. Five today, 50 next week! and the town centre next year! loooool. All you need to do is close the shop or stop the sale of the racist material. Have a great day, and ask yourself if it was really worth putting your town on the map over a racist doll.

DOCTOR1 wrote:

Tony L Martin wrote:

DOCTOR1 wrote:

Michael Pantlin wrote: Get well soon Louise Bennett and your husband too. It is so unfair you suffered all this stress from a Sutton Councillor of all people. Thank you Sutton Police for keeping our High Street open and enabling us to go about our business there today without fear. You have a very tough job keeping the peace with such widely differing opinion but you are fair to all factions. I hope the doll trade picks up as a little bit of compensation for all the aggravation but even that is no good at the expense of one's health. Well Cllr. Lester what's your next community project?

The empire days are over. Britain no longer rules, the waves! The slave sare free and are coming to live next door to many of you, and in fact they will marry your daughters and in many cases, your daughters will marry Black men. Rest assured, I will even go as far as saying that Sutton, will eventually become like Southall and Brixton. So it's only a matter of time before Memory Lane! Becomes a memory!

I beleive what the Doc is trying to say is thank you to the Royal Navy ending the global slave trade.

The Royal Navy did not end the slave, trade. It was due to the fact that slavery was no longer as economically viable as before! So please do not come with this crap that Royal Navy ended slavery! No it did not! It was the decent white people of the time that forced change. The Navy which supported slavery, also helped to end it by orders, not out of conscience. By the way, just because the slave trade ended, that did not mean the slaves were free. Most importantly, the Royal Navy proected merchant ship, which carried their human cargo! So please! Cut the crap, you ignorant racist!

I did not mention conscience you must have miss-understood my comment, the slave trade was around long before the British Empire but not after and impressments continued until the early 1900s.

The slave trade was around before the BritisH Empire, but it was the British that made it an international institution, more so than any other country! The British are also responsible for 50 million people and a whole continent being displaced. It was the British that made Africans develop the new world, known as North America! So do not go there!

Liz2076 wrote:
Well that did go well didn't it Councillor Golloway, less then a handful of protesters turned up! And your next community project will be........

My best wishes to the owners of Memory Lane, you certainly didn't deserve all the worry and stress this man has caused you.

She deserved it! I have no sympathy for her whatsoever! She had a choice!

DOCTOR1 wrote:

Liz2076 wrote:
Well that did go well didn't it Councillor Golloway, less then a handful of protesters turned up! And your next community project will be........

My best wishes to the owners of Memory Lane, you certainly didn't deserve all the worry and stress this man has caused you.

She deserved it! I have no sympathy for her whatsoever! She had a choice!

A few may have turned up! But it sure got Sutton talking! For that alone Lester! Well done! Next time bring in 10 people! No dont they may close down the town instead! loooool! How pathetic! What an over-reaction! Then this is Sutton! Why would on expect better?

20% of the anti British Protesters think Great Britain thought 2 world wars against the Nazi's.
If you hate Great Britain why don't you leave as a protest @Doc

If the people of Sutton have an Issue with the protest over Golliwog! They can always move to Australia or New Zealand or the Antartic or Antartica! Not the sort of places where Black people live! But hold on! We are in those places to! Sorry people! You cant escape us can you. This is what happens when you have a country that once ruled the waves and never wanted to be slaves! loool. KARMA IS A ****!

Tony L Martin wrote:
20% of the anti British Protesters think Great Britain thought 2 world wars against the Nazi's.
If you hate Great Britain why don't you leave as a protest @Doc

Anti-British protesters were right! You are wrong! Regardless, Britain is no longer great, it's actually Germany, the very people you beat in the war! loool! There is a problem, the Germans dont like Brits! Even the Nazi Variety! The protest we are making is to take back what your country has taken systematically. As long as we have your passport, we will stay, unlike your invaders who came to other countries to steal. Enjoy your Curry or Kebab! Kind find Fish and Chips anywhere can ya? looool

DOCTOR1 wrote:

Tony L Martin wrote: 20% of the anti British Protesters think Great Britain thought 2 world wars against the Nazi's. If you hate Great Britain why don't you leave as a protest @Doc

Anti-British protesters were right! You are wrong! Regardless, Britain is no longer great, it's actually Germany, the very people you beat in the war! loool! There is a problem, the Germans dont like Brits! Even the Nazi Variety! The protest we are making is to take back what your country has taken systematically. As long as we have your passport, we will stay, unlike your invaders who came to other countries to steal. Enjoy your Curry or Kebab! Kind find Fish and Chips anywhere can ya? looool

Some people complain about black history being taught in schools, personally I think they need to teach it properly, Know Your History!

Doctor1 who we can all see is Councillor Holloway. Your comments did not exist until after your protest. You obviously have a major grudge for the people who live in england and have deceided to use the golli wog issue as your excuse to bear all of your grudges against the county you reside in. Why on earth are you a councillor. So many people have posted comments on your site you have our attention but all for the wrong reasons you are not doing yourself any good you are centainly argumentative and dont care who you lash out on. You do not know any of us or a back grounds we all know what kind of person you are. you have a sack of potaoes on your shoulder not a chip and you have shown us what really upsets you the golly **** are just an excuse and for some thing for you to hide behind. You have caused distress to the shop owners making them ill to fight a lost cause that you are on your own to deal with. The past is the past we all want to move on with our futures not dwell on the past a doll is a doll what ever the colour. We are in the worst financial climate we could be in people are losing homes and jobs may be they could have yours as i am sure they will not behave in such a dispicable manor as you do. Why not post some of the things you have done as a councillor or does that just exist on the black web sites you used to advertise your protest. We all want to hear the postive things you have done to help people in your post as a representative for the london bourough of sutton. All those redundencies in the council and more to come i believe why are we paying a for you to act in this way.
what a sad world you live in. What a sad live you must have.

Doctor1 you are clearly a very distrurbed person who needs some help. Your comments are offensive and threatening and there is absolutely no need for it. Sutton is a wonderful place to live for all races and we don't need you spouting your vile racist, bigot us language and trying to create trouble where it does not exist. If you are Coun Holloway then you should resign immediately.

DOCTOR1 wrote:

Liz2076 wrote:
Well that did go well didn't it Councillor Golloway, less then a handful of protesters turned up! And your next community project will be........

My best wishes to the owners of Memory Lane, you certainly didn't deserve all the worry and stress this man has caused you.

38am Sat 8 Oct 11

There were two world wars against the Nazi! In fact, if the Brits lost, German would be the mother tongue of the UK. I am sure that many are supporting the soldiers abroad, against terrorism, but yet so many Sutton residents, are willing to support the racist golliwog and the Memory Lane shop in their own backyard. In reality, those that support the golliwog, are harking back to the days, when racism, went un challenged. Well hear what? Those days are over!

The empire days are over. Britain no longer rules, the waves! The slaves are free and are coming to live next door to many of you, and in fact they will marry your daughters and in many cases, your daughters will marry Black men. Rest assured, I will even go as far as saying that Sutton, will eventually become like Southall and Brixton. So it's only a matter of time before Memory Lane! Becomes a memory!

Doctor 1 \ Mr Holloway I think you need to read history before you start spouting off - the Nazi Party came into being in 1920 so in fact only took part in the 2nd World War not 2 Wars.As a previous poster has said you really do have some problems and I urge you to see a Mental Health practitioner at the earliest opportunity.As for saying the shop owner deserves to be ill that shows waht a sad individual you are.The NHS is still free at the point of use even probably for your friends who you say are set to invade Sutton.The tone of your comments are inflammatory and I hope the owners of this newspaper read what is published on their site and take the necessary action - the IP address is logged so you can be identified.

It is more likely that Delroy Constantine-Simms, one of the other organisers of the march is Doctor1.

There is something cute about there little black faces that makes me want to own one,maybe im a lot like my forfathers there.The pc brigade has gone crazy.Dosent buckingham palace sell them ?..Anyway keep smiling,and no more black looks..

There is something cute about there little faces,that makes me want to own one.Iam a bit like my forfathers there.Didnt or dosent the queen still sell them in one of her gift shops?. Its pc gone mad.. Anyway keep smilling and nore more black looks

How very, very sad.... I have a gollywog keyring which I love, I grew up with 'gollywogs' on jamjars and the like, and it NEVER ONCE made me racist!! What makes people racist is the stupid attitudes of some of the people (Dr1)making comments on this story! What about Tiny Tears, baby Annabel, Barbie, Sindy etc ...yes the WHITE dolls? Do white English people feel that is racist??? No, because we see them for what are! God dam dolls! FFS grow up! If they were being advertised as racist items fair enough, but they are not, I feel very sorry for the lady that owns this shop, she is selling nostalgic items that remind us of when Britain really was great before the PC brigade took over! BTW I hope to god you are not a real doctor cos god help us all if you are with your attitude and hatred towards people! Before you lay in to me - which no doubt you will cos of all the hatred you have festering in your body - I am not old, I do work (Nurse), I have a mixed range of friends from all backgrounds, and I am certainly not racist - despite the fact I own a Gollywog! Grow up!

Doctor1 it's Nursey here...time for your medication.How did you slip out of your straight-jacket again? Please don't log onto the computer when it's a full moon,you are upsetting the nice people in the real world.

Doctor1 it's Nursey here...time for your medication.How did you slip out of your straight-jacket again? Please don't log onto the computer when it's a full moon,you are upsetting the nice people in the real world.

well I am not racist and not only did I own a golly, and collect for the badges on Robinson's jam, but I had one of the early black baby dolls too, in fact until a few years ago she was still in my mum's attic, slightly chewed like most of my older dolls but certainly well loved, and I am of Irish/Welsh extraction and Hackney born, and white too I really don't see the issue as at school I had a rainbow of friends, and still do and it's only people like our dear councillor who actually remind me that yes, we are not all the same. Do you not think that by drawing attention to our differences you are making us separate when we are in the long run all human beings who live, feel love and breathe the same way ?

If golliwogs are so offensive to black people why are so many young black people growing long afro hair so that anyone who cares to make an insulting comparison is given plenty of ammunition?

Krissi wrote:
well I am not racist and not only did I own a golly, and collect for the badges on Robinson's jam, but I had one of the early black baby dolls too, in fact until a few years ago she was still in my mum's attic, slightly chewed like most of my older dolls but certainly well loved, and I am of Irish/Welsh extraction and Hackney born, and white too I really don't see the issue as at school I had a rainbow of friends, and still do and it's only people like our dear councillor who actually remind me that yes, we are not all the same. Do you not think that by drawing attention to our differences you are making us separate when we are in the long run all human beings who live, feel love and breathe the same way ?

The matter had been drawn to the public attention by the shop owner. Also why should people hide their differences? I dont see there differences being hidden at the current World Cup in New Zealand, Do you? It's great that you had a rainbow of friends, but being colour blind is also racist, because by ignoring that I am different, you are saying, keep hide your differences, because I dont fel comfortable with them. Well, would you take that view if you were the only white person in say China, or African? Yes, you would stand out for sure and your diference would be obvious and it would be noted!
Wrong is wrong! Simple

Tony L Martin wrote:

DOCTOR1 wrote:

Tony L Martin wrote: 20% of the anti British Protesters think Great Britain thought 2 world wars against the Nazi's. If you hate Great Britain why don't you leave as a protest @Doc

Anti-British protesters were right! You are wrong! Regardless, Britain is no longer great, it's actually Germany, the very people you beat in the war! loool! There is a problem, the Germans dont like Brits! Even the Nazi Variety! The protest we are making is to take back what your country has taken systematically. As long as we have your passport, we will stay, unlike your invaders who came to other countries to steal. Enjoy your Curry or Kebab! Kind find Fish and Chips anywhere can ya? looool

Some people complain about black history being taught in schools, personally I think they need to teach it properly, Know Your History!

They need to teach Black History properly for sure! That's right! That is beyond slavery! Because Black people were not always slaves, and we would not be British, if the British did not come and rape Africa and other parts of the world. So here the deal, the immigrants have come to Mamma, we are moving in, and we are going to take your business, women, and change the face of the UK! Sorry, we did that with the help of Enoch Powell, who came to the Caribbean to recruit our people! Thank you! We have been cleaning you crap for more than 60 years, under the guis of a job, now accept it and respect it and know that as long as minorities are here, you guys have no choice but to show respect! By the way, I hope you guys enjoy Carnival next year! The biggest street festival in Europe! OPPPS! looool

Joey66 wrote:
@theavengers

I find your comments offensive and before you ask I am British and white. Most people I know living in Sutton are enlightened, thinking people who binned their golliwog 'toys' and outdated attitudes back in the 1960's!

The Shop owner has stained Sutton in a bad way! Why because of money and trying to prove a point! She has. RACIST!

Tony L Martin wrote:

DOCTOR1 wrote:

Tony L Martin wrote: There were only about 5 anti-Golliwog protesters, this proves without a doubt that Golliwogs are not offensive, long live the Golliwog.

It's not the number of protesters that counts, it's the fact that the issue has grabbed the attention of the national press. Dont't be short sighted. The mere fact the protest went ahead says it all. Lester won. The shop may still sell their crap today, but bear one thing in mind, what makes you think the protest is over! Do not be fooled sir! Do not make that mistake. If you know how Black folks operate, when it comes to injustice, you know we always have a back up plan. The protest was just an acid test. So for all you number counting, just know that behind the five are another five hundred, preparing for the next time. looool.

How do black folks operate? and why were 500 hiding behind 5?

Black folks are very good at demonstrating, one only has to look how we changed things with the Stephen Lawrence case! If you know your history, in terms of Black politics, you know we always win against wrong in the end, no matter how long we always.

rookie1944 wrote:
If golliwogs are so offensive to black people why are so many young black people growing long afro hair so that anyone who cares to make an insulting comparison is given plenty of ammunition?

Black people and any people should be able to dress anyway they like without being subject to a dress criteria to suit your cultural interests and sensibilities! I would also suggest that the racist comparisons, were around long before Black people were wearing Afro's. It is the racist attitudes of your community that have created and perpetuated the situation! So please! Take back that silly argument! It makes no sense whatsoever! Those ideas can only come from a racist, or people that only like Black people when they hide who they are or do as Masser tells them!

gbzgc wrote:
Doctor1 you are clearly a very distrurbed person who needs some help. Your comments are offensive and threatening and there is absolutely no need for it. Sutton is a wonderful place to live for all races and we don't need you spouting your vile racist, bigot us language and trying to create trouble where it does not exist. If you are Coun Holloway then you should resign immediately.

Let me make one thing clear! I am not Councillor Holloway! He would not be that stupid to respond like this. I am actually a resident of Sutton! Sutton is a wonderful place, to live if you are White and not subject to seeing a Golliwog on sale on your way to collect a cup of coffee! Sadly SUTTON has been exposed as supporting RACISM by the fact that good people did nothing to stop Louise Bennett, selling these racist dolls under the guise of a toy! I also note that you are suggesting that a simple protest against the Golliwog is creating trouble. Let me make one thing clear, the trouble was created by the shop owner. Are you suggesting that the protest of five people is causing trouble in Sutton! Well here this. There will be more next time. What's gonna happen then? The riot police for 10 protesters? How interesting five people have made such an impact on such a large population! Well done Lester! Even if he resigns or not re-elected, that does not mean the protest goes away, in fact we will se his non election, as the ultimate act of SUTTON RACISM!

'Doctor', you have accused the shop owner of being a racist.

I do hope she is watching these comments, takes out a court order to identify you from the Guardian’s records, and sues you for your vile and unsubstantiable libellous accusation.

You are entitled to your beliefs, but personally I think you are nothing but a troublemaker, misinformed and clearly a penny short of a pound. Your arguments lack reason, and reek of fanaticism.

Racism – real racism – is evil, but the type of bigotry you are spouting is not far off. To accuse people of being racist when they are not is as much a crime as is promoting racism.

Get a life and let others go about theirs, untroubled by your libellous accusations.

David7 wrote:
'Doctor', you have accused the shop owner of being a racist.

I do hope she is watching these comments, takes out a court order to identify you from the Guardian’s records, and sues you for your vile and unsubstantiable libellous accusation.

You are entitled to your beliefs, but personally I think you are nothing but a troublemaker, misinformed and clearly a penny short of a pound. Your arguments lack reason, and reek of fanaticism.

Racism – real racism – is evil, but the type of bigotry you are spouting is not far off. To accuse people of being racist when they are not is as much a crime as is promoting racism.

Get a life and let others go about theirs, untroubled by your libellous accusations.

David..... thankyou! I couldn't have put this better! "D1" (I'm sorry I find it an insult to the medical profession to give you the title that you use..) You are the sort of person that makes people racist! I have read all your comments and the only thing that comes across is that you are desperatly trying to cause trouble, you are nothing more than a bully! I'm sure the sensible residents of Sutton have wandered past the shop concerned and the last thought on their mind was 'racism', I know its never crossed my mind - the only thing I associate gollywogs with is ROBERTSONS BLOODY JAM! Grow up, get a life, and when you decide to get of your high horse....try not to step into the path of a passing car! FFS!!!!!! Pathetic!

lilacgeorge wrote:

David7 wrote:
'Doctor', you have accused the shop owner of being a racist.

I do hope she is watching these comments, takes out a court order to identify you from the Guardian’s records, and sues you for your vile and unsubstantiable libellous accusation.

You are entitled to your beliefs, but personally I think you are nothing but a troublemaker, misinformed and clearly a penny short of a pound. Your arguments lack reason, and reek of fanaticism.

Racism – real racism – is evil, but the type of bigotry you are spouting is not far off. To accuse people of being racist when they are not is as much a crime as is promoting racism.

Get a life and let others go about theirs, untroubled by your libellous accusations.

David..... thankyou! I couldn't have put this better! "D1" (I'm sorry I find it an insult to the medical profession to give you the title that you use..) You are the sort of person that makes people racist! I have read all your comments and the only thing that comes across is that you are desperatly trying to cause trouble, you are nothing more than a bully! I'm sure the sensible residents of Sutton have wandered past the shop concerned and the last thought on their mind was 'racism', I know its never crossed my mind - the only thing I associate gollywogs with is ROBERTSONS BLOODY JAM! Grow up, get a life, and when you decide to get of your high horse....try not to step into the path of a passing car! FFS!!!!!! Pathetic!

I have read the comments with interest and I cannot stop laughing! Well if the shop owner wants to go to court! I would welcome her challenge. It would surely bring the case to the wider public. Now if you are still suggesting that she is not racist, by way of not recognizing that these Golliwogs cause offence. Then what else is she other that a racist or plain ignorant. Clearly there are some people that would love to assume that because no one complains about racism, that is does not exist in Sutton. Well I have news for you. It is live and direct, in the form of supporters who see no issue with Golliwog. By ignoring the connotations, you are colluding with a racist. So there it is. If you support the shop and what she is going! You are as good as being a racist! Clear and simple. If you are not. You would do the right thing. If you are advocating court action, feel free. I would love to see this case and Sutton on national and international TV, Justifying the sale of what are obviously RACIST items! SEE YOU IN COURT! GO FOR IT!

Watch Mixed Race Britain. It's a series that talks about how Britain, has the fastest growing mixed raced community in the world! So please! I cant wait until Lilly White Sutton, becomes might brown. I can see why the shop is called Memory Lane. If things go to plan! The shop and sales of Golliwog, will be a DISTANT MEMORY! LOOOOL

DOCTOR1 wrote:

lilacgeorge wrote:

David7 wrote:
'Doctor', you have accused the shop owner of being a racist.

I do hope she is watching these comments, takes out a court order to identify you from the Guardian’s records, and sues you for your vile and unsubstantiable libellous accusation.

You are entitled to your beliefs, but personally I think you are nothing but a troublemaker, misinformed and clearly a penny short of a pound. Your arguments lack reason, and reek of fanaticism.

Racism – real racism – is evil, but the type of bigotry you are spouting is not far off. To accuse people of being racist when they are not is as much a crime as is promoting racism.

Get a life and let others go about theirs, untroubled by your libellous accusations.

David..... thankyou! I couldn't have put this better! "D1" (I'm sorry I find it an insult to the medical profession to give you the title that you use..) You are the sort of person that makes people racist! I have read all your comments and the only thing that comes across is that you are desperatly trying to cause trouble, you are nothing more than a bully! I'm sure the sensible residents of Sutton have wandered past the shop concerned and the last thought on their mind was 'racism', I know its never crossed my mind - the only thing I associate gollywogs with is ROBERTSONS BLOODY JAM! Grow up, get a life, and when you decide to get of your high horse....try not to step into the path of a passing car! FFS!!!!!! Pathetic!

I have read the comments with interest and I cannot stop laughing! Well if the shop owner wants to go to court! I would welcome her challenge. It would surely bring the case to the wider public. Now if you are still suggesting that she is not racist, by way of not recognizing that these Golliwogs cause offence. Then what else is she other that a racist or plain ignorant. Clearly there are some people that would love to assume that because no one complains about racism, that is does not exist in Sutton. Well I have news for you. It is live and direct, in the form of supporters who see no issue with Golliwog. By ignoring the connotations, you are colluding with a racist. So there it is. If you support the shop and what she is going! You are as good as being a racist! Clear and simple. If you are not. You would do the right thing. If you are advocating court action, feel free. I would love to see this case and Sutton on national and international TV, Justifying the sale of what are obviously RACIST items! SEE YOU IN COURT! GO FOR IT!

David go check out the history of the Golliwog, before you open that hole in your face called a mouth!

DOCTOR1 wrote:

LiberalsOut wrote:
How many posts does one person need to spout rubbish when one was enough but when I had read ten, I felt my life ebbing away!!!!!The great thing about this country is that we let all views be heard despite how stupid they are. The FACT is the shop is doing nothing illegal and if the owners illness has been caused by these protests the organisers will have a case to answer themselves.I hope Councillor Lester Holloway has not claimed any expenses for the time he was protesting as he was not engaged in Council work at the time.What a joy to live under a Lib Dem regime every one of the a waste of space well done Mr Pantlin as usual !!!!!!!

If you dont like the Liberals! You can always move out to another area! After all that is your right. Let me tell you one thing! When we start to advertise abroad that Sutton is the best place for minorities to live, you will ask yourselves, why the hell did we let her do it. Bare one thing in mind. Ethnic minorities always enter the most racist areas, take you on board, beat you and build a Mosque as a sign of victory. Look at Thamesmead, Barking, Ilford, Eltham! Have you not sussed it yet. Your constituency has been warned. Get ready for the influx of new minorities, we are not going to run from Sutton, we are going to run to Sutton and turn it into a Labour Constituency! Forget Keeping Sutton White! We are going to make Sutton Brown! You are not even going to see it coming! loooool

57am Sat 8 Oct 11

The Three Golliwogs (Blyton, 1944)

"Once the three bold Golliwogs, Golly, Woggie, and ****, decided to go for a walk to Bumble-Bee Common. Golly wasn't quite ready so Woggie and **** said they would start off without him, and Golly would catch them up as soon as he could. So off went Woggie and ****, arm-in-arm, singing merrily their favourite song - which, as you may guess, was 'Ten Little **** Boys'."

Still think golliwogs aren't racist?!?

DOCTOR1 wrote:

DOCTOR1 wrote:

lilacgeorge wrote:

David7 wrote:
'Doctor', you have accused the shop owner of being a racist.

I do hope she is watching these comments, takes out a court order to identify you from the Guardian’s records, and sues you for your vile and unsubstantiable libellous accusation.

You are entitled to your beliefs, but personally I think you are nothing but a troublemaker, misinformed and clearly a penny short of a pound. Your arguments lack reason, and reek of fanaticism.

Racism – real racism – is evil, but the type of bigotry you are spouting is not far off. To accuse people of being racist when they are not is as much a crime as is promoting racism.

Get a life and let others go about theirs, untroubled by your libellous accusations.

David..... thankyou! I couldn't have put this better! "D1" (I'm sorry I find it an insult to the medical profession to give you the title that you use..) You are the sort of person that makes people racist! I have read all your comments and the only thing that comes across is that you are desperatly trying to cause trouble, you are nothing more than a bully! I'm sure the sensible residents of Sutton have wandered past the shop concerned and the last thought on their mind was 'racism', I know its never crossed my mind - the only thing I associate gollywogs with is ROBERTSONS BLOODY JAM! Grow up, get a life, and when you decide to get of your high horse....try not to step into the path of a passing car! FFS!!!!!! Pathetic!

I have read the comments with interest and I cannot stop laughing! Well if the shop owner wants to go to court! I would welcome her challenge. It would surely bring the case to the wider public. Now if you are still suggesting that she is not racist, by way of not recognizing that these Golliwogs cause offence. Then what else is she other that a racist or plain ignorant. Clearly there are some people that would love to assume that because no one complains about racism, that is does not exist in Sutton. Well I have news for you. It is live and direct, in the form of supporters who see no issue with Golliwog. By ignoring the connotations, you are colluding with a racist. So there it is. If you support the shop and what she is going! You are as good as being a racist! Clear and simple. If you are not. You would do the right thing. If you are advocating court action, feel free. I would love to see this case and Sutton on national and international TV, Justifying the sale of what are obviously RACIST items! SEE YOU IN COURT! GO FOR IT!

David go check out the history of the Golliwog, before you open that hole in your face called a mouth!

David! :57am Sat 8 Oct 11

The Three Golliwogs (Blyton, 1944)

"Once the three bold Golliwogs, Golly, Woggie, and ****, decided to go for a walk to Bumble-Bee Common. Golly wasn't quite ready so Woggie and **** said they would start off without him, and Golly would catch them up as soon as he could. So off went Woggie and ****, arm-in-arm, singing merrily their favourite song - which, as you may guess, was 'Ten Little **** Boys'."

Still think golliwogs aren't racist?!?

iluvgolliwogsbutcoul
dnteatawholeone wrote:
There is something cute about there little black faces that makes me want to own one,maybe im a lot like my forfathers there.The pc brigade has gone crazy.Dosent buckingham palace sell them ?..Anyway keep smiling,and no more black looks..

PC HAS NOT GONE MAD! IT IS THE RACIST THAT IS INSANE!

The Three Golliwogs (Blyton, 1944)

"Once the three bold Golliwogs, Golly, Woggie, and ****, decided to go for a walk to Bumble-Bee Common. Golly wasn't quite ready so Woggie and **** said they would start off without him, and Golly would catch them up as soon as he could. So off went Woggie and ****, arm-in-arm, singing merrily their favourite song - which, as you may guess, was 'Ten Little **** Boys'."

Still think golliwogs aren't racist?!?

I hope the councillor has done enough now to upset his party so that they de-select him from future elections. He's nothing but a trouble maker trying to create division in peaceful Sutton for his own ends and delusions. I guarantee there will a lways be traditional golly dolls available, you can even buy them online or make them yourself come to that. My parents and their relations suffered during the War to give stirrers like him the freedom to make a street protest and he'll never be happy. Give him an inch and he'll demand a yard. Did this former Labour councillor turned LibDem councillor win his Council seat on an anti-doll ticket?
LibDem grandees had better act or the grit he has stirred up will tarnish them. Incidentally is the poster who calls himself doctor incontient. Everytime he has a rant he ends it by calling "looooo!"? Din't underestimate a sleeping British Bulldog mate.

I am going to suggest ensure that a letter is written to the shop and centre manager, and local council, warning them that we will be seeking and injunction against the shop, thus stopping them from selling these items in their shop. Thank you for the COURT ORDER SUGGESTION!

I am going to suggest ensure that a letter is written to the shop and centre manager, and local council, warning them that we will be seeking and injunction against the shop, thus stopping them from selling these items in their shop. Thank you for the COURT ORDER SUGGESTION!

There were hundreds of lovely people of all ethnicity lying down in the road to block Westminster Bridge this afternoon as a protest against the Commons passing Cameron's NHS privatisation Bill. The atmosphere was friendly and supportive. There were also a lot of laughs as in sense of humour if Cllr Holloway want to look up the meaning. He would not understand the British sense of humour and its value in resolving difficult situations. I looked around all the bodies on the hard road surface and could not see the councillor trying to protect our NHS, especially in view of the carve up of our St. Helier Hospital well underway now by the new hatchet man CEO. Use some of your hurt feelings and energy on that Cllr Holloway not on a ridiculous notion about a tradition British Doll.

"Doctor", I challenge you to drop the pseudonym and post under your real name to show how courageous you are.

Michael Pantlin wrote:
I hope the councillor has done enough now to upset his party so that they de-select him from future elections. He's nothing but a trouble maker trying to create division in peaceful Sutton for his own ends and delusions. I guarantee there will a lways be traditional golly dolls available, you can even buy them online or make them yourself come to that. My parents and their relations suffered during the War to give stirrers like him the freedom to make a street protest and he'll never be happy. Give him an inch and he'll demand a yard. Did this former Labour councillor turned LibDem councillor win his Council seat on an anti-doll ticket?
LibDem grandees had better act or the grit he has stirred up will tarnish them. Incidentally is the poster who calls himself doctor incontient. Everytime he has a rant he ends it by calling "looooo!"? Din't underestimate a sleeping British Bulldog mate.

The Dolls are like drugs, you will always be able to get them. But like any illicit product, there is nothing wrong with restricting the open sale of such items. That is the agenda.

Your relatives may have suffered during the war, but my ancestors suffered at the hands of your ancestors for nearly 400 years. If Britain had it's way the empire would still exist! Yes we know the agenda! In terms of never underestimating a Bull Dog! That is true! But never underestimate the power of the Black community, when it comes to our ability to take on the system and win! Bull Dog Spirit can and will easily be pt down, especially when RIGHT IS NOT ON YOUR SIDE!

Well it's clear that you understand th rant otherwise you would not be able to respond to it would you? Think before you comment, before that Bulldog is reduced to a poodle! Hold on The USA, has already done that already! By the way, have you noticed that the US, has Black President. I can imagine how people felt when he won. Especially you Golliwog lovers! Poor Golly! He must have had his **** whooped the day OBAMA became President! loool

DOCTOR1 wrote:

Liz2076 wrote: Well that did go well didn't it Councillor Golloway, less then a handful of protesters turned up! And your next community project will be........ My best wishes to the owners of Memory Lane, you certainly didn't deserve all the worry and stress this man has caused you.

The owner of the shop should be ashamed of herself. The stress she caused, is nothing compared to the stress that Black people have had to endure as a consequence of Golliwog or Gollidoll! Regardless, of name changes, the sentiment is the same. Racist material, sold by people with racist views, and some just plain ignorant. Well here this. Slavery and the empire is over. Black people have a voice and will always stand up against injustice and so will a few decent white people!

You are a very sad individual. You are the racist..............

"Doctor", I challenge you to drop the pseudonym and post from now on under your real name to show how courageous you are or otherwise put a sock in it. Warped abusive drivel fired from under a cloak of anonymity will influence no one. Caution if you keep up your strange incomprehensible postings you risk bringing on spontaneous combustion which can damage your health I believe.

Michael Pantlin wrote:
"Doctor", I challenge you to drop the pseudonym and post under your real name to show how courageous you are.

I challenge all of the commentators to do the same! In terms of bravery, it is the coward that does not say wrong is wrong! So if anyone is the coward, it is the racist and cowards that support the shop! If you are eager to take legal action, then go ahead and target Lester Holloway! I urge you to! Please! Help make his name by de-selecting him. So in turn we can go to the national press and show that he was deselected based on race! Please! We cant wait SUTTON! To make his name on an international level! looool.

I have an idea! Keep selling Golliwogs and I will consider a line of Union Jack Toilet Paper! I am sure that would go down well with the British soldiers in Afghanistan! Wouldn't it? Get the point! Think before you support immorality! Voting out Lester will not silence the issue! It would reinforce the perception that SUTTON is RACIST!

How come these individuals who obviously hate this country and white people choose to live here? I think we know the answer.............d
on't we!

Surreydon wrote:

DOCTOR1 wrote:

Liz2076 wrote: Well that did go well didn't it Councillor Golloway, less then a handful of protesters turned up! And your next community project will be........ My best wishes to the owners of Memory Lane, you certainly didn't deserve all the worry and stress this man has caused you.

The owner of the shop should be ashamed of herself. The stress she caused, is nothing compared to the stress that Black people have had to endure as a consequence of Golliwog or Gollidoll! Regardless, of name changes, the sentiment is the same. Racist material, sold by people with racist views, and some just plain ignorant. Well here this. Slavery and the empire is over. Black people have a voice and will always stand up against injustice and so will a few decent white people!

You are a very sad individual. You are the racist..............

When you use the word racist! Make sure you understand what the term means before you use it. Clearly you have no idea what racism is. If you did you could not be so stupid as caling a Black person racist, when referring to white people. That is absolute crap. Do some home work, or at least go on a diversity and equality course, the very courses that SUTTON PEOPLE NEED!

Racism - discrimination on an ethnic or cultural basis of 'any' group of people who are defined by reference to their race, colour or nationality.

You are racist. You are inciting hatred. You are abhorrent!

Surreydon wrote:
How come these individuals who obviously hate this country and white people choose to live here? I think we know the answer.............d

on't we!

How come racist white people like to go to none what countries and complain about the culture they are living in. Spain and Gibraltar are the biggest example of British bad behaviour when living abroad. In fact where ever Britis live. Even in Australia and New Zealand. Let me tell you another thing. Alot of us were born here and as such we know how you think! People come here because your imperialist past raped and stole the wealth of these countries. So hey why not? Let's rape and pillage the benefit system, and take over the cities and put our stamp on the UK, in the same manner that your colonial past did to most parts of the world, until ya **** was told to leave!
So while the country is rich, we immigrants are going to take advantage of your laws and stay. Let's get real, white folks who live here are going to Australia and New Zealand, so why cant these people come here. We are because we have the right to do so. After all, you insisted that we call ourselves British, we are but we are not loyal to the culture, that's why Caribbean's wave their respective flags when possible, in the same way that the British fly the Union Jack! I love this country, because it has given many immingrants and their children, the opportunity to benefit from the stolen wealth of their respective countries! You guys do not get it do you! LOOOOL. THIS IS BETTER THAN THE X-FACTOR!

So if the councillor thought only ten at most people would turn up for his protest why did if need to be advertised outside Sutton on back activist websites? A few private emails would have done the trick. He is doing a good job at uniting people in a cause but it's all the good, peace-loving people of all ethnicities who reside in Sutton where dolls have not been and are not a contentious issue. The loooooatic will now say loooooo again just wait and see :))

Michael Pantlin wrote:
So if the councillor thought only ten at most people would turn up for his protest why did if need to be advertised outside Sutton on back activist websites? A few private emails would have done the trick. He is doing a good job at uniting people in a cause but it's all the good, peace-loving people of all ethnicities who reside in Sutton where dolls have not been and are not a contentious issue. The loooooatic will now say loooooo again just wait and see :))

You are soooooooooooooooo right;)

Michael! The shop owner had every opportunity to keep the matter local by removing the offending items. I can see that you wanted Sutton to keep this issue local. Well racism, where ever it resides, will always be exposed. If this simple protests creates uproar outside SUTTON! Well done! Women not being able to vote or go to school in Afghanistan, that does not mean they are right. So for me selling these dolls may be a right, but that does not make the owner of Memory Lane right!

Michael Pantlin wrote:
There were hundreds of lovely people of all ethnicity lying down in the road to block Westminster Bridge this afternoon as a protest against the Commons passing Cameron's NHS privatisation Bill. The atmosphere was friendly and supportive. There were also a lot of laughs as in sense of humour if Cllr Holloway want to look up the meaning. He would not understand the British sense of humour and its value in resolving difficult situations. I looked around all the bodies on the hard road surface and could not see the councillor trying to protect our NHS, especially in view of the carve up of our St. Helier Hospital well underway now by the new hatchet man CEO. Use some of your hurt feelings and energy on that Cllr Holloway not on a ridiculous notion about a tradition British Doll.

Slavery was also a British tradition! So you reference to a traditional doll is joke. You are the typical racist, in that it's OK to laugh and smile with minorities as long as they dont complain! The Golliwog may be part of your tradition, but it is not acceptable. Well Fish and Chips use to be part of UK culture, but hear the deal. It is now curry, kebab and pizza! How pathetic is that? Let me tell you about the National Health! You guys got what you voted for so do not complain! Those who support the doll are actually some of the people that have racist views to minority staff, patients, so please stop your bull! The National Health Service, is one of the most racist insitutions in the UK! Do some research. The only reason why white folks are protesting is because there position is being challenged and taken away, if it want, there would be no protests! So for me the Doll is issue is linked and separate! DEAL WITH IT AND STOP YOUR DENIAL! SUTTON HAS BEEN OUTED!

Michael Pantlin wrote:
So if the councillor thought only ten at most people would turn up for his protest why did if need to be advertised outside Sutton on back activist websites? A few private emails would have done the trick. He is doing a good job at uniting people in a cause but it's all the good, peace-loving people of all ethnicities who reside in Sutton where dolls have not been and are not a contentious issue. The loooooatic will now say loooooo again just wait and see :))

I am sure the Councillor adopted a private approach, in fact he did. She refused! So given that she refused, Hell yes! The world should know about Sutton's dirty racist secret! Are you proud to be associated with a town that openly sells GOLLIWOGS! Just wait until the Olympics when the eyes of the world are on London! Rest assured, SUTTON is going to be on the MAP! WORLD WIDE for the wrong reason. In fact, I am going to make sure CNN, get a hold of this story, as well as all the EU funding bodies, that give money to SUTTON! If you think a storm is brewing, it is! looool

Michael Pantlin wrote:
So if the councillor thought only ten at most people would turn up for his protest why did if need to be advertised outside Sutton on back activist websites? A few private emails would have done the trick. He is doing a good job at uniting people in a cause but it's all the good, peace-loving people of all ethnicities who reside in Sutton where dolls have not been and are not a contentious issue. The loooooatic will now say loooooo again just wait and see :))

I am sure the Councillor adopted a private approach, in fact he did. She refused! So given that she refused, Hell yes! The world should know about Sutton's dirty racist secret! Are you proud to be associated with a town that openly sells GOLLIWOGS! Just wait until the Olympics when the eyes of the world are on London! Rest assured, SUTTON is going to be on the MAP! WORLD WIDE for the wrong reason. In fact, I am going to make sure CNN, get a hold of this story, as well as all the EU funding bodies, that give money to SUTTON! If you think a storm is brewing, it is! looool

So Anonymous Coward who ducked my challenge to print his real name agrees with me that golly dolls will continue to exist after we are both passed on to that great dolls house in the sky. I'm not replying to any more of his posts because he has satisfied me that he is a care in the community case and the monkey rather than the organ grinder for the stirring so no point addressing him.

Are you that incensed that you want me details in order to attack me! My views stand Mr PALLIN! The fact of the matter is this! You are wrong and the 5 protesters did a good job! They have exposes the ANONYMOUS racism that exists in SUTTON!

Message to the Editors of this Newspaper please take this story down now or else someone is going to write something they regret and could find themselves in serious trouble - Doctor 1 is getting very close to that now and if nothing else it will save him from further embarassment.

Michael P, I suggest you too contact The Guardian or a lawyer and demand that this person’s identity be revealed to you. He has called you a racist. That is possibly a criminal offence.

It’s exactly what this idiot wants, however, but his extreme fanaticism and desire for publicity – at any cost –should not detract from the fact that that he has libelled you and many others.

Incidentally, Doctor1, plenty of us have done our research. Golliwogs were banned in Germany in 1934, because they were considered inappropriate toys for Aryan children. By your twisted logic, you seem to think that Hitler was right.

I think I have proved my point following this latest post from The Doctor - It is now time to pass these comments over to someone who can look at them from a legal point of view

Councillor Holloway, you are extremely quiet on this issue, yet clearly you have a close link to DOCTOR1 who, I imagine, was protesting with you, and whose identity you know.

Do you agree with the postings of 'DOCTOR1' on this and similar stories on the Guardian website, where he accuses the shop owner of being a racist? And where he also accused Sutton in general of being racist, accused Michael Pantlin of being a racist, and accused anyone who disagreed with him of being a racist?

Please do answer clearly and precisely. Your views are important to your constituents.

Hi David7! No worries, thanks. The raving spin doctor is too far gone to understand the English culture enshrined in such adages as "Sticks and stones....." and Empty vessels.....". Put another way he is trying to pee up a down pipe. :))

Hi David7! No worries, thanks. The raving spin doctor is too far gone to understand the English culture enshrined in such adages as "Sticks and stones....." and Empty vessels.....". Put another way he is trying to pee up a down pipe. :)) Language evolves and the word racist has been overused and used out of context with the result that it has now come to mean anyone who's ideas are disapproved of by the author. Innit. :))
Monty Python could have written a funny sketch on the material in this comments column. I liked the one about the society for putting objects on top of other objects whose members so fervently believed in that activity.

DOCTOR1 wrote:
Are you that incensed that you want me details in order to attack me! My views stand Mr PALLIN! The fact of the matter is this! You are wrong and the 5 protesters did a good job! They have exposes the ANONYMOUS racism that exists in SUTTON!

Leave it aht! You're 'avin' a larf! You mean they have exposed a non-existent problem in Sutton that you and Cllr Holloway might like to create for your own ends i think. I appreciate that you are grit scared of revealing your name but you have nothing to fear from me. I have commented in reply to yours but I would never attack you and that is a promise. Now let's see your real name.

I dont think that this protest is actually ablout golliwogs it goes deeper than this the golliwogs have been used as an excuse to accuse not just the shop owners but every one who objected against the protest. Coucillor holloway and DR1 whom I still think is the same person and has more likly than not used a false i.d for fear of being caught. The person who is being raciest here stands out clearly by there hurtful comments who has a lot of anger inside them. Dr1 knew why the protest had to be on a friday (other protest taking place at the weekend) how would they know this with organising the one they did on the Friday. How ever many people attend against the golliwog just shows that the sale of golliwogs is not an issue to black, white pink or blue people. Sutton is a good place to live in there are many different people that live in or close to sutton there is a mosque just down the road so what if another is built in sutton it brings more. who ever lives in sutton they bring money back into the borough so that we can make it an even better place to live in. We have some top schools in Sutton for all kids which are the future for when we get old. London Borough of Sutton should now be stepping in to stop this you employ councillor Holloway other wise he is going to ruin the good reputation that we have. This is all he seems to want to do.If any one goes to the isle of wight Golliwogs are sold in almost every shop as are black and white dolls.
Golliwogs are not the only item sold in the MEMORY LANE SHOP this counts as what 1% of the stock how can they be raciest. I would to urge some one to take legal action against DR1 and Councillor Holliway this protest is in humane its disgusting and i hope that his employers are repremanding him for his actions.

And don't forget 2012 is World Teddy & Golly Year where local communities will arrange gatherings where everyone can relax with mugs of Ovaltine and Robertson marmalade on toast sing treasured nursery rhymes and reminisce about their childhood love for their dolly, teddy and golly. Attenders can rummage through their attics and find their old loved cuddly toy and win a prize for the best entry. Family fun for every member of the community where no-one wants to drone on about long words such as ethnicity. Or did I just drop off for a minute and dream that?

"Casual racism shouldn't stand unopposed, but perhaps it can be fought in ways that break out of the 'I'm offended' mould"
Cllr Holloway wrote this in an article for the (national) Guardian Tuesday 31 May 2011

http://www.guardian.
co.uk/commentisfree/
2011/may/31/naomi-ca
mpbell-cadbury#start
-of-comments

Michael Pantlin wrote:
And don't forget 2012 is World Teddy & Golly Year where local communities will arrange gatherings where everyone can relax with mugs of Ovaltine and Robertson marmalade on toast sing treasured nursery rhymes and reminisce about their childhood love for their dolly, teddy and golly. Attenders can rummage through their attics and find their old loved cuddly toy and win a prize for the best entry. Family fun for every member of the community where no-one wants to drone on about long words such as ethnicity. Or did I just drop off for a minute and dream that?

Well clearly, you have taken time out to write your diatribe. I refused to be silenced by your juvenile nursery rhymes or by your pathetic support of racism, I certainly will never list I will take no lessons in racism from white people, as Black person living in Britain, More importantly, the fact that the person has chosen tel sell one Golliwog is enough. So what you saying is this, It's ok to sell offensive stock, as long as the stock is not offensive. Rubbish. You also suggest that the Golliwog is not an issue to Black people. Oh really. So why don't you try selling Golliwogs in area where plenty of Black people live. You sill soon see the response. That shop would be torched in a minute! But most of us would seek the legal route, because we know better, unlike your racist shope keeper who has no moral conscience whatsover. Now it is very interesting that you go on about the numbers of protesters! Wow! Do you think that represents the true sentiment? Do not be fooled by numbers! Like I said before. That small protest was just a dry run. The protesters, have made their point by virtue of the fact that the issue has been brought out in the open and of course the Sutton Guardian and yourself, have given this protest more publicity that one could imagine. So while you are to busy focusing on the protester numbers, the protesters have put them selves in a position where everyone living in Sutton, who reads the paper will know about the protest. So thank you Sutton Guardian. Thank for allowing this protest to get the publicity it would never have had without you co-operation. The point of the protest has ben made. The shopkeeper is a racist and so are you Michael. If you do not have the moral fabric or persperctive to know right fom wrong, then it's clear to me that you are no better than the people that refuse to acknowledge the holocaust happened. We know your type well. I will also argue that racists and liberals like you, only prefer minorities, as long as they dont make an issue of being oppressed, abused and discriminated. This cry of people being able to protest in a democracy is great, but clearly, racists like yourself cannot take it when the finger is pointed at you directly, especially when you refuse to acknowledge when you mere support of the shp selling such products is wrong. The shop will continue tell sell such products, but hear this. The matter will not rest. What I find sad is all these racist Golliwog owners yearning for their childhood, the days, when Black people were openly abused at every opportunity possible. The mere fact that people yearn for their child hood is refelction of the mentality in Sutton. But hold on one moment. I understand now I am dealing with people with child like mentality, who can't see right from wrong. It get it. Old in age but childish in mentality. I like the idea of the Mosque in Sutton! I want them to build a bigger one. In fact, I cant wait for Sutton to become the new Brixton, Tottenham or Southall. I yearn for the days when all those posh schools will be filled with minorities! Well it will happen and the joke is this. They will have British passports! I look forward to Golliwog and Teddybear day. It will also give the world the best PR opportunity to expose Sutton in the Olympic year. Dont worry, we want the event to go ahead! Please let us have dates so we can all come down and take pictures, post them on the internet. Thank you for such a Golden Opportunity. You can celebrate Teddy and Gilliwog day, out of interest, when is SWINE FLU DAY? LOOOOL

Car99 wrote:
"Casual racism shouldn't stand unopposed, but perhaps it can be fought in ways that break out of the 'I'm offended' mould"
Cllr Holloway wrote this in an article for the (national) Guardian Tuesday 31 May 2011

http://www.guardian.

co.uk/commentisfree/

2011/may/31/naomi-ca

mpbell-cadbury#start

-of-comments

Casual racism offends. It offends, then it should be addressed according. It is unfair of you to suggest that Lester should be told how to respond to racism. That is not on! But at least you understand that casual racism is wrong! I applaud you for your respond.

LiberalsOut wrote:
Message to the Editors of this Newspaper please take this story down now or else someone is going to write something they regret and could find themselves in serious trouble - Doctor 1 is getting very close to that now and if nothing else it will save him from further embarassment.

Dont bother about the regret factor, go ahead and express how you feel.Wow! This is a democracy! You have the right to express your viewpoint, regardless of wether I agree or not. What I will not accept is the fact that you want to censor my right to free speech. You also talk about embarassment! I think not! If that was the case or the comments were so so offensive, the editor would have acted without reference to yourself. I must also stress, that the removal of this story will also provide further news for the protesters. You may silence on but that does not mean you will be able to silence the rest. The removal of this story, does not mean the protest will simply go away. The shop keeper made this an issue. If you want to point the finger, I suggest you got to Memory Lane, and by the way, by yourself a Golliwog, and bear in mind, that the **** have not given up the protest. They are just planning for another day.

lilacgeorge wrote:
How very, very sad.... I have a gollywog keyring which I love, I grew up with 'gollywogs' on jamjars and the like, and it NEVER ONCE made me racist!! What makes people racist is the stupid attitudes of some of the people (Dr1)making comments on this story! What about Tiny Tears, baby Annabel, Barbie, Sindy etc ...yes the WHITE dolls? Do white English people feel that is racist??? No, because we see them for what are! God dam dolls! FFS grow up! If they were being advertised as racist items fair enough, but they are not, I feel very sorry for the lady that owns this shop, she is selling nostalgic items that remind us of when Britain really was great before the PC brigade took over! BTW I hope to god you are not a real doctor cos god help us all if you are with your attitude and hatred towards people! Before you lay in to me - which no doubt you will cos of all the hatred you have festering in your body - I am not old, I do work (Nurse), I have a mixed range of friends from all backgrounds, and I am certainly not racist - despite the fact I own a Gollywog! Grow up!

You are a nurse! I strongly suggest you look at the NMC code of conduct! I also suggest you familiarise with an on going case in which two nurses have beens suspended for wearing Golliwog keyrings to work. I must also point out that the mere fact that you cannot see the offence is clearly an indication of your ignorance of your own history, and the symbolism of racism. I have Jewich friends, but I certainly would never make it public that I owned Swaztikas! Gladly, I dont. By the way, the I have mixed friends, is the oldest and worst arguement one could ever use to claim non racist credentials! The history of the UK is tainted with blood. Also the reason why Britain is no longer Great, is because the foundation of the Empire is based on the blood and sweat of it's colonial subject. While you may think a golliwog is nostalgic, do not complain when that perspective is challenged. By the way slavery was nostalgic, would you celebrate that history by having a doll or item, depicted that history? You may not be an out and out racist, but you surely have some questionable views on what racism is. I urge you to do your research before you even try and articulate such arguments. It's shameful! If any one needs to grow up it is yourself. Do the right thing and ditch the Golliwog! You will feel much better for doing so!

gbzgc wrote:
Doctor1 you are clearly a very distrurbed person who needs some help. Your comments are offensive and threatening and there is absolutely no need for it. Sutton is a wonderful place to live for all races and we don't need you spouting your vile racist, bigot us language and trying to create trouble where it does not exist. If you are Coun Holloway then you should resign immediately.

Sutton is a great place for all races, as long as the minority keep their mouths **** and do not complain about racism. Well hear the deal. The Memory Lane Shop is sellimng offensive material openly! In terms of being a bigot! The bigot is the pron that rfuses to distinguish between right and wrong. In terms of the language being threatening please! There have been no comments relating to threats of violence, directly or indirectly so please! Cut the crap and read the material again! In terms of creating trouble! That started when your shoop keeper decided to sell Golliwogs so openly! What I will say to you is this, no ine is looking for trouble, but just because one makes a legitimate complaint against racism or any other ism! Is not about trouble, its about exercising the right of protest. The making trouble argument is what was once used in the deep south when Blacks protested against racism in the USA. Well the outcome of that statement is quite clear! The Black folks won, because goos white folks eventually got the message. loool

Surreydon wrote:
Racism - discrimination on an ethnic or cultural basis of 'any' group of people who are defined by reference to their race, colour or nationality.

You are racist. You are inciting hatred. You are abhorrent!

This one of the worst defintions of racism I have ever come across. You have forgotten to cite the issue of power! Now go back and find a proper defintion! As I have said before, just because people do not agree with the Golliwog is not inciting racial hatred. What is inciting racial hatred, is the fact that you refuse to ignore the fact that the Golliwog is a symbol of racism. You need to research your arguments. If any thing is abhorrent, it is the fact that you and others fail to understand how wrong the open selling of Golliwog is. I accept that the sale cant be stopped. But I QUESTION ANYONE THAT WOULD WANT TO BUY SUCH AN ITEM KNOWING WHAT IT REPRESENTS AND HOW IT OFFENDS!

Surreydon wrote:

DOCTOR1 wrote:

Liz2076 wrote: Well that did go well didn't it Councillor Golloway, less then a handful of protesters turned up! And your next community project will be........ My best wishes to the owners of Memory Lane, you certainly didn't deserve all the worry and stress this man has caused you.

The owner of the shop should be ashamed of herself. The stress she caused, is nothing compared to the stress that Black people have had to endure as a consequence of Golliwog or Gollidoll! Regardless, of name changes, the sentiment is the same. Racist material, sold by people with racist views, and some just plain ignorant. Well here this. Slavery and the empire is over. Black people have a voice and will always stand up against injustice and so will a few decent white people!

You are a very sad individual. You are the racist..............

The Three Golliwogs (Blyton, 1944)

"Once the three bold Golliwogs, Golly, Woggie, and ****, decided to go for a walk to Bumble-Bee Common. Golly wasn't quite ready so Woggie and **** said they would start off without him, and Golly would catch them up as soon as he could. So off went Woggie and ****, arm-in-arm, singing merrily their favourite song - which, as you may guess, was 'Ten Little **** Boys'."

Still think golliwogs aren't racist?!?

jaded1 wrote:
Doctor1 it's Nursey here...time for your medication.How did you slip out of your straight-jacket again? Please don't log onto the computer when it's a full moon,you are upsetting the nice people in the real world.

The Three Golliwogs (Blyton, 1944)

"Once the three bold Golliwogs, Golly, Woggie, and ****, decided to go for a walk to Bumble-Bee Common. Golly wasn't quite ready so Woggie and **** said they would start off without him, and Golly would catch them up as soon as he could. So off went Woggie and ****, arm-in-arm, singing merrily their favourite song - which, as you may guess, was 'Ten Little **** Boys'."

Still think golliwogs aren't racist?!?

David7 wrote:
'Doctor', you have accused the shop owner of being a racist.

I do hope she is watching these comments, takes out a court order to identify you from the Guardian’s records, and sues you for your vile and unsubstantiable libellous accusation.

You are entitled to your beliefs, but personally I think you are nothing but a troublemaker, misinformed and clearly a penny short of a pound. Your arguments lack reason, and reek of fanaticism.

Racism – real racism – is evil, but the type of bigotry you are spouting is not far off. To accuse people of being racist when they are not is as much a crime as is promoting racism.

Get a life and let others go about theirs, untroubled by your libellous accusations.

The Three Golliwogs (Blyton, 1944)

"Once the three bold Golliwogs, Golly, Woggie, and ****, decided to go for a walk to Bumble-Bee Common. Golly wasn't quite ready so Woggie and **** said they would start off without him, and Golly would catch them up as soon as he could. So off went Woggie and ****, arm-in-arm, singing merrily their favourite song - which, as you may guess, was 'Ten Little **** Boys'."

Still think golliwogs aren't racist?!?

lilacgeorge wrote:

David7 wrote:
'Doctor', you have accused the shop owner of being a racist.

I do hope she is watching these comments, takes out a court order to identify you from the Guardian’s records, and sues you for your vile and unsubstantiable libellous accusation.

You are entitled to your beliefs, but personally I think you are nothing but a troublemaker, misinformed and clearly a penny short of a pound. Your arguments lack reason, and reek of fanaticism.

Racism – real racism – is evil, but the type of bigotry you are spouting is not far off. To accuse people of being racist when they are not is as much a crime as is promoting racism.

Get a life and let others go about theirs, untroubled by your libellous accusations.

David..... thankyou! I couldn't have put this better! "D1" (I'm sorry I find it an insult to the medical profession to give you the title that you use..) You are the sort of person that makes people racist! I have read all your comments and the only thing that comes across is that you are desperatly trying to cause trouble, you are nothing more than a bully! I'm sure the sensible residents of Sutton have wandered past the shop concerned and the last thought on their mind was 'racism', I know its never crossed my mind - the only thing I associate gollywogs with is ROBERTSONS BLOODY JAM! Grow up, get a life, and when you decide to get of your high horse....try not to step into the path of a passing car! FFS!!!!!! Pathetic!

The Three Golliwogs (Blyton, 1944)

"Once the three bold Golliwogs, Golly, Woggie, and ****, decided to go for a walk to Bumble-Bee Common. Golly wasn't quite ready so Woggie and **** said they would start off without him, and Golly would catch them up as soon as he could. So off went Woggie and ****, arm-in-arm, singing merrily their favourite song - which, as you may guess, was 'Ten Little **** Boys'."

Still think golliwogs aren't racist?!?

Surreydon wrote:

DOCTOR1 wrote:

Liz2076 wrote: Well that did go well didn't it Councillor Golloway, less then a handful of protesters turned up! And your next community project will be........ My best wishes to the owners of Memory Lane, you certainly didn't deserve all the worry and stress this man has caused you.

The owner of the shop should be ashamed of herself. The stress she caused, is nothing compared to the stress that Black people have had to endure as a consequence of Golliwog or Gollidoll! Regardless, of name changes, the sentiment is the same. Racist material, sold by people with racist views, and some just plain ignorant. Well here this. Slavery and the empire is over. Black people have a voice and will always stand up against injustice and so will a few decent white people!

You are a very sad individual. You are the racist..............

The Three Golliwogs (Blyton, 1944)

"Once the three bold Golliwogs, Golly, Woggie, and ****, decided to go for a walk to Bumble-Bee Common. Golly wasn't quite ready so Woggie and **** said they would start off without him, and Golly would catch them up as soon as he could. So off went Woggie and ****, arm-in-arm, singing merrily their favourite song - which, as you may guess, was 'Ten Little **** Boys'."

Still think golliwogs aren't racist?!?

Doctor1, I now have no alternative but to assume you are a class one idiot. Your diatribes are bullying, and close to online terrorism.

I urge anyone who has been called a racist by this numpty to complain to The Guardian and to the Police. This is a serious matter.

Far more serious that golliwogs.

David7 wrote:
Michael P, I suggest you too contact The Guardian or a lawyer and demand that this person’s identity be revealed to you. He has called you a racist. That is possibly a criminal offence.

It’s exactly what this idiot wants, however, but his extreme fanaticism and desire for publicity – at any cost –should not detract from the fact that that he has libelled you and many others.

Incidentally, Doctor1, plenty of us have done our research. Golliwogs were banned in Germany in 1934, because they were considered inappropriate toys for Aryan children. By your twisted logic, you seem to think that Hitler was right.

I think you have an extreme desire to supress the issue by attempting to focus on the personal. You should also be ashamed of yourself by making reference to Hitler. Understand one thing, If Hitler had won the war, you would be speaking German, and Germany would be the Motherland.

So typical. You may not be an out and EDL, BNP card carrying racist, but from where I am, your are supporting a symbol of British racism, so that makes it hard for me to make a distinction, between party and non party members. I must also point out to you that it wasnt the Germans that invented the Golliwog was it? So do not go there. Germany might have banned them for different reasons, but I suppose the British mentality was much difrent, in that Germany did not have history of enslaving Black people, unlike the British, but the Germans were certainly colonials in Africa, and treated Black people as badly as the British, if not worse. But going back to the issue, no matter how much you twist your logic! The Golliwog is stil considered a symbol of racism! SIMPLE!

lilacgeorge wrote:
How very, very sad.... I have a gollywog keyring which I love, I grew up with 'gollywogs' on jamjars and the like, and it NEVER ONCE made me racist!! What makes people racist is the stupid attitudes of some of the people (Dr1)making comments on this story! What about Tiny Tears, baby Annabel, Barbie, Sindy etc ...yes the WHITE dolls? Do white English people feel that is racist??? No, because we see them for what are! God dam dolls! FFS grow up! If they were being advertised as racist items fair enough, but they are not, I feel very sorry for the lady that owns this shop, she is selling nostalgic items that remind us of when Britain really was great before the PC brigade took over! BTW I hope to god you are not a real doctor cos god help us all if you are with your attitude and hatred towards people! Before you lay in to me - which no doubt you will cos of all the hatred you have festering in your body - I am not old, I do work (Nurse), I have a mixed range of friends from all backgrounds, and I am certainly not racist - despite the fact I own a Gollywog! Grow up!

The Three Golliwogs (Blyton, 1944)

"Once the three bold Golliwogs, Golly, Woggie, and ****, decided to go for a walk to Bumble-Bee Common. Golly wasn't quite ready so Woggie and **** said they would start off without him, and Golly would catch them up as soon as he could. So off went Woggie and ****, arm-in-arm, singing merrily their favourite song - which, as you may guess, was 'Ten Little **** Boys'."

Still think golliwogs aren't racist?!?

lol i find the doctor telling anyone to know their history laughable this lil toad knows nothing about history. he never mentions the fact slavery in africa was around long before the british empire. Ever heard of the pyramids well guess how they were built how about the fact it was other african tribes selling the slaves to whitey. This guy is a retard just spouting rubbish he has googled but not bothered to look in to the whole thing. Also a doll can not be racist it is just plastic it has no thought of mind or life. Things you need to be racist, things can be used in a racist way of course but these dolls were not. I you do not like this country fine your welcome to go back to the mother land and live in a hut made of elephant dung

DOCTOR1 wrote:

Tony L Martin wrote: It is more likely that Delroy Constantine-Simms, one of the other organisers of the march is Doctor1.

Wrong! LOOOOL! Nice try! But yes he is a supporter of the March and has made that quite clear and has not hidden behind a fake name, either. So try again and this time get it right you fool Tony! loool

Ha Ha who cares

doctorkiller wrote:
lol i find the doctor telling anyone to know their history laughable this lil toad knows nothing about history. he never mentions the fact slavery in africa was around long before the british empire. Ever heard of the pyramids well guess how they were built how about the fact it was other african tribes selling the slaves to whitey. This guy is a retard just spouting rubbish he has googled but not bothered to look in to the whole thing. Also a doll can not be racist it is just plastic it has no thought of mind or life. Things you need to be racist, things can be used in a racist way of course but these dolls were not. I you do not like this country fine your welcome to go back to the mother land and live in a hut made of elephant dung

The only fact you have got right so far is tha Black people sold Black people. That is true, but the British made SLAVERY an international business like no other country has ever done before, worse still they did so using religious justifications. If the British were so called civilised, then why did they engage in the purchase of other humans, if they were so called better than the Africans who sold them to you. I will also argue, that after a while, you guys did not buy slaves you caught and captured them, with the help of Black fools, similar to the ones that exist today who are just as blind to racism as white people. But I guess, that you prefer the subservient type of Black that does as he is told! But it's also true that White, people were fighting white people en masse over the right to rule the world. By the way, the mud hut I was born in is called ENGLAND! By the way the Mother Land with mudhuts must be popular, because the British just can't keep out of other countries, also the mudhuts were fine for the British until the USA, indirectly forced the British to give up the Empire, if it wanted help, before during and after the war! Well your the UK could not be fighting for freedom, while running an EMPIRE! What a contradiction! What a joke! Just like the people who see the Golliwog as a badge of historical honour! JOKER! At least the Yanks did not hide their RACIST ways!

Please check out the documentary on BNP Fraud on BBC Panorama! BNP are ripping of the public

Michael Pantlin wrote:

DOCTOR1 wrote:
Are you that incensed that you want me details in order to attack me! My views stand Mr PALLIN! The fact of the matter is this! You are wrong and the 5 protesters did a good job! They have exposes the ANONYMOUS racism that exists in SUTTON!

Leave it aht! You're 'avin' a larf! You mean they have exposed a non-existent problem in Sutton that you and Cllr Holloway might like to create for your own ends i think. I appreciate that you are grit scared of revealing your name but you have nothing to fear from me. I have commented in reply to yours but I would never attack you and that is a promise. Now let's see your real name.

Actually! The problem may not exist for you! But it exists for the racists that exist in Sutton. The nature of the responses, indicates quite clearly, that the protesters have hit a very raw nerve. Rest assured, you more than anyone else have helped make this issue bigger than it should be. Wow! I can see that this must be on of the longest running threads EVER on the SUTTON GUARDIAN. The people that are really scared are the people that refuse to acknowledge that their nostalgic love of Goliwog is shameful, in that to do so is to identify with the symbolism it represents. Children don't always make the connection, but adults should know better! YOU ARE WRONG! THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND OF COURSE FUELLING THIS ISSUE WITH YOUR RESPONSES! THANK YOU FOR THE PR! SUTTON WILL NOW BE GOOGLED UNDER THE PHRASE GOLLIWOG AND RACISM! LOOOOL

DOCTOR1 wrote:

Michael Pantlin wrote:

DOCTOR1 wrote:
Are you that incensed that you want me details in order to attack me! My views stand Mr PALLIN! The fact of the matter is this! You are wrong and the 5 protesters did a good job! They have exposes the ANONYMOUS racism that exists in SUTTON!

Leave it aht! You're 'avin' a larf! You mean they have exposed a non-existent problem in Sutton that you and Cllr Holloway might like to create for your own ends i think. I appreciate that you are grit scared of revealing your name but you have nothing to fear from me. I have commented in reply to yours but I would never attack you and that is a promise. Now let's see your real name.

Actually! The problem may not exist for you! But it exists for the racists that exist in Sutton. The nature of the responses, indicates quite clearly, that the protesters have hit a very raw nerve. Rest assured, you more than anyone else have helped make this issue bigger than it should be. Wow! I can see that this must be on of the longest running threads EVER on the SUTTON GUARDIAN. The people that are really scared are the people that refuse to acknowledge that their nostalgic love of Goliwog is shameful, in that to do so is to identify with the symbolism it represents. Children don't always make the connection, but adults should know better! YOU ARE WRONG! THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND OF COURSE FUELLING THIS ISSUE WITH YOUR RESPONSES! THANK YOU FOR THE PR! SUTTON WILL NOW BE GOOGLED UNDER THE PHRASE GOLLIWOG AND RACISM! LOOOOL

Four hundred years ago a white man said to African's trust me, the next thing he knew he was given a seat belt of chains on a boat to America and the Caribbean! Get the message!

Michael Pantlin wrote:
I hope the councillor has done enough now to upset his party so that they de-select him from future elections. He's nothing but a trouble maker trying to create division in peaceful Sutton for his own ends and delusions. I guarantee there will a lways be traditional golly dolls available, you can even buy them online or make them yourself come to that. My parents and their relations suffered during the War to give stirrers like him the freedom to make a street protest and he'll never be happy. Give him an inch and he'll demand a yard. Did this former Labour councillor turned LibDem councillor win his Council seat on an anti-doll ticket?
LibDem grandees had better act or the grit he has stirred up will tarnish them. Incidentally is the poster who calls himself doctor incontient. Everytime he has a rant he ends it by calling "looooo!"? Din't underestimate a sleeping British Bulldog mate.

The Three Golliwogs (Blyton, 1944)

"Once the three bold Golliwogs, Golly, Woggie, and ****, decided to go for a walk to Bumble-Bee Common. Golly wasn't quite ready so Woggie and **** said they would start off without him, and Golly would catch them up as soon as he could. So off went Woggie and ****, arm-in-arm, singing merrily their favourite song - which, as you may guess, was 'Ten Little **** Boys'."

Still think golliwogs aren't racist?!?

michelle b wrote:
Doctor1 who we can all see is Councillor Holloway. Your comments did not exist until after your protest. You obviously have a major grudge for the people who live in england and have deceided to use the golli wog issue as your excuse to bear all of your grudges against the county you reside in. Why on earth are you a councillor. So many people have posted comments on your site you have our attention but all for the wrong reasons you are not doing yourself any good you are centainly argumentative and dont care who you lash out on. You do not know any of us or a back grounds we all know what kind of person you are. you have a sack of potaoes on your shoulder not a chip and you have shown us what really upsets you the golly **** are just an excuse and for some thing for you to hide behind. You have caused distress to the shop owners making them ill to fight a lost cause that you are on your own to deal with. The past is the past we all want to move on with our futures not dwell on the past a doll is a doll what ever the colour. We are in the worst financial climate we could be in people are losing homes and jobs may be they could have yours as i am sure they will not behave in such a dispicable manor as you do. Why not post some of the things you have done as a councillor or does that just exist on the black web sites you used to advertise your protest. We all want to hear the postive things you have done to help people in your post as a representative for the london bourough of sutton. All those redundencies in the council and more to come i believe why are we paying a for you to act in this way.
what a sad world you live in. What a sad live you must have.

If the shop owner is distressed, I can see that she has the support of many of you people who support the sale of Golliwogs. Well I have no interest in the mental state of anyone who sell such material. Absolutely none. An economic crisis does not justify racism. The Golliwog may be a small issue to you! But let me tell you one important fact! Even during the good times, Black folks and other minorities were still experiencing racism. In fact the economic pain that you are talking about is nothing new to Black folks, in fact I am pleased that things are geting bad, then at least you will understand what it is like to be denied an opportunity to work or even earn money when one is skilled and qualified.

The Three Golliwogs (Blyton, 1944)

"Once the three bold Golliwogs, Golly, Woggie, and ****, decided to go for a walk to Bumble-Bee Common. Golly wasn't quite ready so Woggie and **** said they would start off without him, and Golly would catch them up as soon as he could. So off went Woggie and ****, arm-in-arm, singing merrily their favourite song - which, as you may guess, was 'Ten Little **** Boys'."

Still think golliwogs aren't racist?!?

WELL! I am reading this in California, USA so if anyone thinks the protest hasn't reach far, think again.
I can't speak for the shop owners racial motives, I would imagine to them it's just another potential sale item. HOWEVER, the realization that there might be a market in Sutton for such distasteful items in this day and age says loads about the borough and none of it good! To sell them is at best disrespectful and insensitive and at worst, not racist but an astonishingly ignorant thing to do.

I am absolutely certain that if there were a doll with Nazi/anti-semitic attachments they would never even "Think" of selling them and what an uproar there would be if they did.
There are memories well worth holding onto, this is not one of them.

exumab@hotmail.com wrote:
WELL! I am reading this in California, USA so if anyone thinks the protest hasn't reach far, think again.
I can't speak for the shop owners racial motives, I would imagine to them it's just another potential sale item. HOWEVER, the realization that there might be a market in Sutton for such distasteful items in this day and age says loads about the borough and none of it good! To sell them is at best disrespectful and insensitive and at worst, not racist but an astonishingly ignorant thing to do.

I am absolutely certain that if there were a doll with Nazi/anti-semitic attachments they would never even "Think" of selling them and what an uproar there would be if they did.
There are memories well worth holding onto, this is not one of them.

At last! Some one who understands the issue! What makes things worse is the fact that someone 3000 miles away can see that the sales of Golliwogs are offensive, but people in Sutton, cannot. SHAME ON YOUR SUPPORTERS OF GOLLIWOG! SHAME ON YOU! Well at least Sutton is now on the international map! Sadly, for the WRONG REASONS!

David7 wrote:
Doctor1, I now have no alternative but to assume you are a class one idiot. Your diatribes are bullying, and close to online terrorism.

I urge anyone who has been called a racist by this numpty to complain to The Guardian and to the Police. This is a serious matter.

Far more serious that golliwogs.

I am here in stitches at your term " Online Terrorism and Bullying! If you want to complain, I suggest you take the necessary steps! But from where I stand you are misguided, by the fact that you can assume that you can bully me into silence based on threats of legal action. Go ahead! Let's make an issue in the courts and even the National Press! Please I urge you! Rest assured such actions will catapult the issue into the stratosphere! Go for it! The problem you will have is this. How can you not have racist tendencies when you identify and support the sales of an item, that is symbolic of British Racism of the past and sadly, still is the case? How would you explain that to your Black Colleagues? Have you thought about that? If the Guardian had an issue with these comments! I would have been deleted! Clearly, I am staying within the boundaries I agreed to when I signed up to the site! So please go ahead and call the Police! You may silence one today, but another person will take my place in a second! It's been three days since the protest and you are still hot and bothered! The job has been done! The Golliwog issue has been exposed. Sadly, the good people of Sutton are being tarnished by the actions of a few. Sadly, the decent majority, will be tainted, because of one person, who refuses to get the point. Selling and stocking these GOLLIWOGS is wrong! She will never be stopped, but she should be stopped selling them in such a public space! Sell em on line or ebay! But not in a High Street Shop! That is utter stupidity! Well the way the economy is going! The shop will not be there that long anyway! I pray for the day she closes down! She will! Its only a matter of time!

The "Golliwogg" (later "Golliwog", "golly doll") was a character in children's books in the late 19th century and depicted as a type of rag doll. It was reproduced, both by commercial and hobby toy-makers as a children's toy called the "golliwog", and had great popularity in North America, the United Kingdom, Europe and Australia, into the 1960s. The doll has black skin, eyes rimmed in white, clown lips, and frizzy hair, and it has been described as the least known of the major anti-black caricatures in the United States. While home-made golliwogs were sometimes female, the golliwog was generally male. For this reason, in the period following World War II, the golliwog was seen, along with the teddy bear, as a suitable soft toy for a young boy.

obviously the whole thing really offends you but why should someone who has fond memories of having a child hood toy give up ther right to buy it? just because it offends you? that's not how free society works. Most people who have commented don't see the racist connotations you talk about, because they aren't racist. they see beyond the colour of the doll... but you don't..... are there any modern day black dolls? probably not because the toy makers are scared of biggots like you... sad really...

I DON’T need to tell you that if it looks like racism and smells like racism, you're either going to have to stand and fight or run like hell with your shirt full of wind.

Rosemarie O'Donnell has decided to stand firm. She was in a planning dispute with her neighbour, 65 year old Jena Mason.

A few days after the local council found against Mrs O'Donnell, a golliwog mysteriously appeared in her neighbour's window.

IMPLICATION

To most of us who have experienced racism this was no harmless coincidence. Even to those who have never been the victims of racism the implication is clear. We all know what the golliwog means. But the law requires a stronger burden of proof in race relations. And that is what is proving so intractable in the fight against racism.

You see, racist white folks think they're getting cleverer and cleverer in being racist without being charged for racism.

Why does it matter? Because racism is raising its ugly head again in every nook and cranny. And, just like the bad old days, when you speak up against it you're immediately accused of being over sensitive. Or being as bad as the racists. A standard reply to a complaint of racism nowadays is the question, “What about all the black people who are racist against good, honest, hard-working white people?"

What has that got to do with our claim of racism?

“It cuts both ways."

Well, I don't know about that. I don't know what it is when a black man is ‘racist' to a white guy, but believe me it's not racism. Call it something else. Wotlessness, foolishness, ignorace, bravado. Anything you like. But it's not racism. Racism is when some cocky little white guy believes that they can come up to you and start mouthing off about how this country is theirs and you don't belong here and you have less rights than they have and they're confident that the rest of society from the police to the bankers to the teachers and the judges are backing them up by their treatment of you and yours. THAT'S racism.

But it's so hard to prove. The current legislation only protects us from the most blatant expression of racism where the affront is accompanied by the N-word and such like. How many racists are stupid enough to use the N-word nowadays? Not even Nick Griffin of the BNP would do so in public.

The level of proof could of course be dropped altogether and the law could simply take our word for it. The only other way to determine whether something is racist or not, where the level of proof needed can never be met unless black people go around secretly wired for sound and pictures 24-7, is to create a daytime television gameshow. The gameshow will allow the public to decide by phoning a premium number, whether a golliwog in a bedroom window overlooking the garden of the Jamaican woman next door a few days after you have won a planning permission dispute with them, is tantamount to racism.

I wonder how the country would vote. Don't you?

FFS give it up you pratt! I have reported the comments on this page to the guardian as I feel certain people (ahem or person!) is taking this just a little bit to far!!! Here's a proper example of racism: My boy is being bullied at school by two boys are ethnically different (is that ok with you D1??) and the other day they called him 'whitey', now personally it doesn't bother me that they called him 'whitey' cos I suppose if you want to be finicky thats what he is, so what, (I'm trying very hard not to say 'whitey & proud of it!) what really p*ssed me off was when it was reported to the school, their reaction was 'don't worry about it, thats kids for you..' NOW supposing MY son had called them a name refering to their skin colour....would the reaction have been the same....NO I THOUGHT NOT! As for the story written above, it was written in INNOCENCE, theres a difference, back in 1944, there was no PC pratts dictating us, its funny cos I grew up with Enid Blyton, gollywogs etc and I'm not racist, I also grew up with Noddy & bigears, pc pugwash and a whole host of others and I was never made to feel as though there was an issue, nowadays more people are racist cos they are made to feel racist, everything nowadays is 'an issue'! As much as I would love to continue bickering with you D1, I've got better, more important & more grown up things to be doing, take care, have fun, I hope for your sake you find inner peace cos bloody hell you need it, so much pent up anger is no good for you, night night sweet cheeks xxxxxx

i just read the same article - the person who displayed the golliwog was an idiot... but it doesn't mean everyone who owns a black doll is racist... and if you think black people aren't racist to white people then please re-read your posts... you are obvioulsy a strong racist yourself... and you have alot of issues with white people... you have to realise that white people aren't the enemy... your own negative attitude is.... move on....

wookie025 wrote:
obviously the whole thing really offends you but why should someone who has fond memories of having a child hood toy give up ther right to buy it? just because it offends you? that's not how free society works. Most people who have commented don't see the racist connotations you talk about, because they aren't racist. they see beyond the colour of the doll... but you don't..... are there any modern day black dolls? probably not because the toy makers are scared of biggots like you... sad really...

'nuff said....hit the perverbal nail on the head ;)

lilacgeorge wrote:

wookie025 wrote:
obviously the whole thing really offends you but why should someone who has fond memories of having a child hood toy give up ther right to buy it? just because it offends you? that's not how free society works. Most people who have commented don't see the racist connotations you talk about, because they aren't racist. they see beyond the colour of the doll... but you don't..... are there any modern day black dolls? probably not because the toy makers are scared of biggots like you... sad really...

'nuff said....hit the perverbal nail on the head ;)

Update on the case of two mental health nurses who carried on a campaign of racist abuse

By Daily Mail Reporter

—
St Mary's Hospital, Kettering

Two nurses used gollywog keyrings to mock black colleagues, a tribunal heard today. The trinkets were bought as holiday souvenirs and Susan Horton clipped one to her uniform at St Mary’s Hospital in Kettering, Northamptonshire.

Healthcare assistant Sandy Smith told the Nursing and Midwifery Council that Horton put the golly on her uniform ‘so it was always accessible.’ She said: ‘I grew up with gollys and I loved them – I didn’t think there was anything political about them. ‘On a number of occasions I witnessed Ms Horton pointing at the golly and pointing at the black nurses. If I’d known they would be used for ridicule and abuse, I would never have bought them.’

The hearing was also told how nurse Sarah Cullum branded a patient a ‘parasite’ and refused to serve him any more toast when he asked for three Weetabix for breakfast. Ms Smith said: ‘Ms Cullum was very rude to Patient E and refused to let him have three Weetabix. In a loud voice she called him a “parasite” and told us to restrict the amount of toast we gave him. ‘We were all disgusted and ignored her. Patient E heard Ms Cullum and told her there was no need to be nasty.’ Cullum also wore a gollywog keyring, the hearing was told.

Horton and Cullum made monkey noises while discussing a black doctor during a campaign of racist abuse, it is claimed. They allegedly referred to the medic as ‘scary Mary’ and said she ‘shouldn’t be allowed to breed.’ Racist comments were often exchanged between Horton and Cullum when they met for shift handover, Ms Smith said.

On one occasion, two black nurses from Guyana were chatting in the staffroom in their native language. Ms Smith said: ‘Ms Horton and Ms Cullum both made the comment that they were “jabbering away in their gobbledegook”. It was said in a very belittling way and it wasn’t very nice to hear.’

The healthcare assistant said she had witnessed Ms Horton force-feeding an elderly woman who didn’t want to eat. She claimed the incident took place in the ward dining room about three years ago and was seen by many other patients. ‘It was a very unpleasant scene to witness,’ she added. ‘She was literally pushing food into her mouth.’

Cullum and Horton are facing a total of 77 misconduct charges, all but a handful of which they have denied. The majority of the allegations relate to racism, much of it towards a black doctor identified as Ms M.

If the nurses are found guilty and their fitness to practise is ruled to be impaired, they could face being struck off.

The hearing continues.

wookie025 wrote:
i just read the same article - the person who displayed the golliwog was an idiot... but it doesn't mean everyone who owns a black doll is racist... and if you think black people aren't racist to white people then please re-read your posts... you are obvioulsy a strong racist yourself... and you have alot of issues with white people... you have to realise that white people aren't the enemy... your own negative attitude is.... move on....

The problem with you comments is that it is so typicallly liberal. In on breath you say she is an idiot and then you say move on! Excuse me. I will move on when I am good and ready, not under your instruction. You dont have to be racist to own a Golliwog, but it's clear that those who identify with the doll and reject to symbolism are no better than the racist! In terms of white people not being the emeny. Well 500 years of slavery and colinization and continued racial discrimination in the UK, tells Black people otherwise! Just because Black people sleep with you guys, does not mean we trust you! The Liberal as oppose to the racist is the person I fear the most! They usually come in White!

DOCTOR1 wrote:

lilacgeorge wrote:
How very, very sad.... I have a gollywog keyring which I love, I grew up with 'gollywogs' on jamjars and the like, and it NEVER ONCE made me racist!! What makes people racist is the stupid attitudes of some of the people (Dr1)making comments on this story! What about Tiny Tears, baby Annabel, Barbie, Sindy etc ...yes the WHITE dolls? Do white English people feel that is racist??? No, because we see them for what are! God dam dolls! FFS grow up! If they were being advertised as racist items fair enough, but they are not, I feel very sorry for the lady that owns this shop, she is selling nostalgic items that remind us of when Britain really was great before the PC brigade took over! BTW I hope to god you are not a real doctor cos god help us all if you are with your attitude and hatred towards people! Before you lay in to me - which no doubt you will cos of all the hatred you have festering in your body - I am not old, I do work (Nurse), I have a mixed range of friends from all backgrounds, and I am certainly not racist - despite the fact I own a Gollywog! Grow up!

You are a nurse! I strongly suggest you look at the NMC code of conduct! I also suggest you familiarise with an on going case in which two nurses have beens suspended for wearing Golliwog keyrings to work. I must also point out that the mere fact that you cannot see the offence is clearly an indication of your ignorance of your own history, and the symbolism of racism. I have Jewich friends, but I certainly would never make it public that I owned Swaztikas! Gladly, I dont. By the way, the I have mixed friends, is the oldest and worst arguement one could ever use to claim non racist credentials! The history of the UK is tainted with blood. Also the reason why Britain is no longer Great, is because the foundation of the Empire is based on the blood and sweat of it's colonial subject. While you may think a golliwog is nostalgic, do not complain when that perspective is challenged. By the way slavery was nostalgic, would you celebrate that history by having a doll or item, depicted that history? You may not be an out and out racist, but you surely have some questionable views on what racism is. I urge you to do your research before you even try and articulate such arguments. It's shameful! If any one needs to grow up it is yourself. Do the right thing and ditch the Golliwog! You will feel much better for doing so!

Update on the case of two mental health nurses who carried on a campaign of racist abuse

By Daily Mail Reporter

—
St Mary's Hospital, Kettering

Two nurses used gollywog keyrings to mock black colleagues, a tribunal heard today. The trinkets were bought as holiday souvenirs and Susan Horton clipped one to her uniform at St Mary’s Hospital in Kettering, Northamptonshire.

Healthcare assistant Sandy Smith told the Nursing and Midwifery Council that Horton put the golly on her uniform ‘so it was always accessible.’ She said: ‘I grew up with gollys and I loved them – I didn’t think there was anything political about them. ‘On a number of occasions I witnessed Ms Horton pointing at the golly and pointing at the black nurses. If I’d known they would be used for ridicule and abuse, I would never have bought them.’

The hearing was also told how nurse Sarah Cullum branded a patient a ‘parasite’ and refused to serve him any more toast when he asked for three Weetabix for breakfast. Ms Smith said: ‘Ms Cullum was very rude to Patient E and refused to let him have three Weetabix. In a loud voice she called him a “parasite” and told us to restrict the amount of toast we gave him. ‘We were all disgusted and ignored her. Patient E heard Ms Cullum and told her there was no need to be nasty.’ Cullum also wore a gollywog keyring, the hearing was told.

Horton and Cullum made monkey noises while discussing a black doctor during a campaign of racist abuse, it is claimed. They allegedly referred to the medic as ‘scary Mary’ and said she ‘shouldn’t be allowed to breed.’ Racist comments were often exchanged between Horton and Cullum when they met for shift handover, Ms Smith said.

On one occasion, two black nurses from Guyana were chatting in the staffroom in their native language. Ms Smith said: ‘Ms Horton and Ms Cullum both made the comment that they were “jabbering away in their gobbledegook”. It was said in a very belittling way and it wasn’t very nice to hear.’

The healthcare assistant said she had witnessed Ms Horton force-feeding an elderly woman who didn’t want to eat. She claimed the incident took place in the ward dining room about three years ago and was seen by many other patients. ‘It was a very unpleasant scene to witness,’ she added. ‘She was literally pushing food into her mouth.’

Cullum and Horton are facing a total of 77 misconduct charges, all but a handful of which they have denied. The majority of the allegations relate to racism, much of it towards a black doctor identified as Ms M.

If the nurses are found guilty and their fitness to practise is ruled to be impaired, they could face being struck off.

The hearing continues.

Queen Sorry for Golliwog Dolls in Gift Shop:Uproar over blackface character prompts rare royal apology

By Jason Farago, Newser Staff

Posted Feb 5, 2009 7:29 AM CST

(Newser) – Queen Elizabeth issued a rare apology after the revelation that a shop at one of her estates was selling "golliwogs"—a kind of blackface minstrel doll. The dolls, made in China, have frizzy black hair and beady eyes, and are prominently displayed at the gift shop at Sandringham, in the east of England. A Buckingham Palace spokesman said that "the Queen wouldn't tolerate any kind of racism."

As the Daily Mail reports, the brouhaha over the royal gift shop comes on the heels of another "golliwog" incident. Carol Thatcher, a television presenter and the daughter of former PM Margaret Thatcher, was booted from her job at the BBC after she used the word to describe several players at the Australian Open. Thatcher refused to apologize for the incident until a newspaper published the story.

DOCTOR1 wrote:

Tony L Martin wrote:
There were only about 5 anti-Golliwog protesters, this proves without a doubt that Golliwogs are not offensive, long live the Golliwog.

Queen Sorry for Golliwog Dolls in Gift Shop

Uproar over blackface character prompts rare royal apology




By Jason Farago, Newser Staff


Posted Feb 5, 2009 7:29 AM CST



STORY
COMMENTS (5)





































(Newser) – Queen Elizabeth issued a rare apology after the revelation that a shop at one of her estates was selling "golliwogs"—a kind of blackface minstrel doll. The dolls, made in China, have frizzy black hair and beady eyes, and are prominently displayed at the gift shop at Sandringham, in the east of England. A Buckingham Palace spokesman said that "the Queen wouldn't tolerate any kind of racism."

As the Daily Mail reports, the brouhaha over the royal gift shop comes on the heels of another "golliwog" incident. Carol Thatcher, a television presenter and the daughter of former PM Margaret Thatcher, was booted from her job at the BBC after she used the word to describe several players at the Australian Open. Thatcher refused to apologize for the incident until a newspaper published the story.

Tony! You can focus on number on the day, but the response on line says otherwise. So you can bask in the glory of numbers! But in reality the victory belongs to the protesters, on the basis that it has generated so much discussion with you help and others like you. So long live the protest! It is now part of Sutton's history. The internet and the column inches and radio play has made this possible! So I agree long live Gilliwog! He has done the protest pround, by exposing the fact that mor people stayed silent on the issue. So numerically, the majority of people in Sutton, support the sale of Golliwogs, so therefore should not complain, if the town of Sutton is considered a hot bed of racism amd racist activity!

The Guardian, Friday 6 February 2009
Article history

Let's get one thing clear from the off: the term golliwog is offensive. Whether you use it public, in private, on air, or in the green room, no one in their right mind can not be aware that this is a derogatory term to describe black people.

But unless you have been spat at, kicked or had eggs thrown at you, all while being called that hateful term, it is unlikely you will ever understand why a small doll causes such a big fuss.

Whether it's bullies, thugs, or grown-up TV presenters who should know better, every time I hear the word I flinch, it's like I'm back in the playground all over again, fending off the punches.

When I hear the word a red mist descends: I don't want to see it, or even discuss it, all I want is for people to stop saying it and take the **** thing out of my sight. I do not care whether or not it was considered racist when it first appeared in 1873, a fact which is pretty weak as arguments go, I mean come on, how many black people do you think were asked about it then?

Sure, there are far more racist images, but this is one I thought we'd all agreed was unacceptable and now, thanks to Thatcher, when I turn on the radio, television or open my newspaper, I am confronted with it all over again. Each time I hear it, it's like a fresh punch, a reopening of old wounds, made worse by the fact I'd foolishly assumed the standard of the race debate had risen higher than "is it racist to call a black person a golliwog?".

I consider the fact black boys are more likely to end up in prison than university a much more racist statistic than how many golliwogs Hamley's sells a year, and I am far more angered by the number of black children killed by gun and knife crime than whether or not Thatcher is allowed to report for the One Show (though if you're asking, I think the BBC acted swiftly and correctly, and should be congratulated for doing so).

The fact that so many white commentators have deigned to tell me they don't find the term offensive only makes matters worse. I'm not saying you have to be black to have a point of view on this, but you certainly have to be black to have ever been called a golliwog, so when a white man tells me he doesn't see what the problem is, well, am I really expected to take him seriously?

Nor am I particularly surprised that these dolls are still on sale, or that people are still stupid enough to buy them. I spotted one displayed in a shop window on a recent trip to Norfolk. My white friend was horrified when I pointed it out to her, and yet a couple of days later she asked if I'd mind whether she bought a souvenir from the same shop, and there was I thinking it was a no-brainer. The sad truth is that racism exists in far more subtle and pernicious ways than the casual, lazy form expressed by Thatcher. I'd much rather be discussing why there's a market in this country for the BNP than a market for this doll. Just don't expect me to act surprised when someone seemingly respectable appears to slip up.

The Sunday Times



February 8, 2009



Profile: The Golliwog: Rag doll causing a stir in the playroom

The Carol Thatcher furore has exposed our divided opinions of the character that started life in a children’s story






Good golly Miss Molly! as the American rock’n’roller Little Richard exclaimed in his 1956 hit. The uproar over the BBC’s dropping of Carol Thatcher for her use of the word “golliwog” has sharply divided opinion on whether it was a harmless children’s toy or an offensive racist caricature.

The BBC was reportedly inundated with angry calls condemning its decision to sack Baroness Thatcher’s 55-year-old daughter as “roving reporter” on The One Show after she used the word to describe Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, the mixed-race French tennis player.

Soon there was royal collateral damage. Golliwog soft toys were withdrawn from the gift shop on the Sandringham estate and the Queen was said to be “furious”, particularly after Prince Harry’s dressing down for calling a military colleague a **** and Prince Charles referring to a friend as Sooty. It was recalled that Camilla was spotted with a golliwog key-ring at Hampton Court Flower Show last year.

Then Hamleys, the Regent Street toy shop, withdrew golliwogs from sale. However, the internet retailer Amazon continued to advertise them and eBay, the online auction site, was last week offering 219 items ranging from “golliwog salt and pepper pots” to “cute rubber golly fridge magnet”.

Thatcher’s comments had been made in the green room after the show in a conversation with its host, Adrian Chiles, and the comedian Jo Brand. According to Thatcher’s friends she was incensed that she had been reported for a private conversation, but the BBC’s version of events was that 12 people had been present.

“In my school playgrounds, during the 1950s and 1960s, ‘golliwog’ was a routine piece of racist abuse, a fighting word, and after all this time it’s hard to believe that Carol Thatcher was using the word innocently,” Mike Phillips wrote in The Guardian.

According to Matthew Syed in The Times: “Words like ****, **** and golliwog are not iniquitous because of tone, context or intent. Their power lies in their capacity to reinforce an inner bias so potent that few of us can rid ourselves of its influence.”

Although many people have fond memories of golliwog toys, the concept has fallen into disuse – as out of place in the modern age as The Black and White Minstrel Show, which for two decades was one of Britain’s most popular television programmes until it faded away in 1978 after a barrage of criticism.

In the 1980s a campaign against racial insensitivity, led by the Greater London Council, led to the withdrawal of golliwog books from public libraries and the decline of golliwog toys.

The last straw for loyalists came in 2001 when Robertson’s jam dropped the golliwog trademark that had first appeared on its jars in 1910, becoming one of the Britain’s longest running consumer loyalty schemes. More than 20m golliwog badges were dispatched to children who sent in three tokens.

Robertson’s denied that it had given in to campaigns and boycott threats, citing research that children were unfamiliar with the character. According to the firm’s promotional literature, John Robertson, the owner’s son, had first encountered the golliwog doll in America just before the first world war. He saw rural children playing with black rag dolls made from discarded black skirts and blouses. Believing the children called the toys “golly” as a mispronunciation of “dolly”, he returned to Britain with the name and image.

However, the golliwog had first lodged in public consciousness about 15 years earlier as a story book character created by Florence Kate Upton. Born in 1873 in Flushing, New York, to English parents who had moved to the United States three years previously, Upton was 16 when her father died. Four years later the family returned to England.

Impoverished, but harbouring ambitions as an artist, she began illustrating her own children’s books as a way of raising the money for tuition. With the accompanying verse written by her mother, Bertha, her book The Adventures of Two Dutch Dolls was published in London in 1895. The story featured two dolls, Peg and Sarah Jane, let loose in a toy shop where they encountered “a horrid sight, the blackest gnome” wearing bright red trousers, a red bow tie on a white shirt and a blue swallowtailed coat.

“He was a caricature of American black-faced minstrels – in effect, a caricature of a caricature,” wrote David Pilgrim, professor of sociology, in his study for the Museum of Racist Memorabilia at Ferris State University in Michigan.

Upton named the character Golliwogg, perhaps derived from pollywog, a dialect word for tadpole meaning wiggle head. Her Golliwogg was based on a black minstrel doll she had played with roughly as a small child in New York. She recalled: “Seated upon a flowerpot in the garden, his kindly face was a target for rubber balls . . . the game being to knock him over backwards. It pains me to think of those little rag legs flying ignominiously over his head, yet that was a long time ago, and before he had became a personality . . . We knew he was ugly.”

Upton often drew her Golliwogg with paws instead of hands and feet, giving him a coal black face, wide eyes, thick lips and long, unruly hair.

The book became a bestseller in Britain and the Golliwogg was such a hit that the second printing was retitled The Adventures of Two Dutch Dolls and a Golliwogg. In 12 books over the next 14 years, the Golliwogg journeyed to the North Pole and Africa with his friends, the Dutch Dolls. By then the Golliwogg had top billing over the dolls in every title.

The Uptons’ failure to copyright the Golliwogg led to the character becoming a common figure in other children’s books, renamed Golliwog. Whereas the Uptons’ doll was ugly but loveable, his successors tended to be unkind and hideous.

Meanwhile, other industries had cottoned on to the golliwog’s potential, notably Steiff, the German doll manufacturer, which in 1908 began mass production of the dolls. Those early examples now change hands for thousands of pounds. In Britain the firms Merrythought and Deans joined the bonanza.

Only the teddy bear exceeded the golliwog’s popularity in the first half of the 20th century. Sir Kenneth Clark, the art historian, remembered his childhood toy as an example of chivalry, “far more persuasive than the unconvincing knights of Arthurian legend”. Claude Debussy, the French composer, was so charmed by the golliwogs in his daughter’s books that he included Golliwog’s Cakewalk in his Children’s Corner suite.

Enid Blyton, the children’s writer, featured villainous golliwogs in her Noddy stories, as well as writing three books primarily about golliwogs. These days her style would set teeth on edge. The Three Golliwogs, for example, includes this passage: “Once the three bold golliwogs, Golly, Woggie, and ****, decided to go for a walk . . . Golly wasn’t quite ready so Woggie and **** said they would start off without him, and Golly would catch them up as soon as he could. So off went Woggie and ****, arm-in-arm, singing merrily their favourite song – which as you may guess, was Ten Little **** Boys.”

The golliwog was embraced throughout the British empire as an ostensibly paternalistic symbol of the black man but, like colonialism itself, its image began to fall into disfavour. After the second world war the name suffered by association with the racial insult “wog”, even though this applied mainly to Arabs and Asians rather than Africans. By the 1960s the clamour of protest was growing amid racial tension between blacks and whites in Britain.

According to Pilgrim, the campaign to ban golliwogs was similar to the American campaign against Little Black Sambo, a children’s book by Helen Bannerman, a Scot who lived for 30 years in Madras, southern India. First published in 1899, it was the tale of an Indian boy named Sambo who prevails over a group of hungry tigers.

“In both cases, racial minorities and sympathetic whites argued that these images demeaned blacks and hurt the psyches of minority children,” said Pilgrim.

In 2006 police seized three golliwogs from a shop in Bromyard, Herefordshire, after complaints. They were acting under section 5 of the Public Order Act, which makes it an offence to display material that could be threatening, abusive or insulting. Last year Viv Endecott, a shop owner in Corfe Castle, Dorset, complained of receiving hate mail after she sold more than 500 golliwogs in six months.

Joan Bland, who runs the teddy shop Asquiths in Henley-on-Thames, was standing firm last week. “I will say the word ‘golly’ simply means ‘doll’ and that the golliwog’s duty is to spread love and happiness. And they do spread love and happiness. Masses of people buy them and collect them, people of all races,” she said.

Children are colour blind, a listener told Radio 5 Live last week. But many adults, conscious of the golliwog’s accumulated baggage, have consigned him to the fate of Paddington Bear – who was left on a railway platform long ago.

DOCTOR1 wrote:

DOCTOR1 wrote:

Tony L Martin wrote: There were only about 5 anti-Golliwog protesters, this proves without a doubt that Golliwogs are not offensive, long live the Golliwog.

Queen Sorry for Golliwog Dolls in Gift Shop Uproar over blackface character prompts rare royal apology By Jason Farago, Newser Staff Posted Feb 5, 2009 7:29 AM CST STORY COMMENTS (5) (Newser) – Queen Elizabeth issued a rare apology after the revelation that a shop at one of her estates was selling "golliwogs"—a kind of blackface minstrel doll. The dolls, made in China, have frizzy black hair and beady eyes, and are prominently displayed at the gift shop at Sandringham, in the east of England. A Buckingham Palace spokesman said that "the Queen wouldn't tolerate any kind of racism." As the Daily Mail reports, the brouhaha over the royal gift shop comes on the heels of another "golliwog" incident. Carol Thatcher, a television presenter and the daughter of former PM Margaret Thatcher, was booted from her job at the BBC after she used the word to describe several players at the Australian Open. Thatcher refused to apologize for the incident until a newspaper published the story.

Tony! You can focus on number on the day, but the response on line says otherwise. So you can bask in the glory of numbers! But in reality the victory belongs to the protesters, on the basis that it has generated so much discussion with you help and others like you. So long live the protest! It is now part of Sutton's history. The internet and the column inches and radio play has made this possible! So I agree long live Gilliwog! He has done the protest pround, by exposing the fact that mor people stayed silent on the issue. So numerically, the majority of people in Sutton, support the sale of Golliwogs, so therefore should not complain, if the town of Sutton is considered a hot bed of racism amd racist activity!

As Head of State Her Majesty the Queen is a figure head and is not responsible for stocking gift shops, this is political correctness gone mad.
We do not need to do as we are told by racists like Doctor1 or Lester Holloway.
As for the online anti Golliwog response it is mainly one irate idiot going on and on who won’t even give his real name.