THE Anti Nazi League is planning a massive leaflet drop in Burnley this weekend to 'expose what the BNP stands for'.

They decided to target Burnley after the British Nationalist Party (BNP) polled more than 4,000 votes in this year's general election. Burnley has been targeted by the ANL after race riots in the town at the end of June.

A ban on marches and assemblies was enforced by the Home Secretary, David Blunkett.

Among those taking part in the leaflet drop will be supporters of Burnley Football Club who will wear club shirts as they hand out leaflets in the tow.

ANL spokesman Debbie Jack said: "We decided to target areas where the BNP got quite good support in the elections.

"We want to explain what they stand for, they are trying to put on a respectable front and move into the political mainstream.

"We want to expose the criminal convictions of the leaders and to show what their party really stands for."

The ANL claims that local councillors and trade unions are supporting the action.

Steven Smith, BNP candidate for Burnley at this year's general election, said: "People have a perfect right to express their beliefs and opinions, indeed our forefathers fought in two World Wars for freedom of speech and the right of assembly.

"We in the BNP do not have a problem with the demonstration, provided they abide by the law and do not intimidate or bully people who disagree with what they have to say.

"If they believe that their Communist ideology is more appealing than that of the BNP then let them stand in next May's local elections where we will be contesting every single seat in Burnley and Padiham, and where we expect to win."

A spokesman for Lancashire Police said: "There will be a policing operation and there will be quite a large numbers of officers out and about.

"Our main aim is to ensure that the normal life of Burnley's general population is not disrupted."