Tommy Robinson holds Salford protest against BBC Panorama

About 3,000 people have joined Tommy Robinson in a protest against the BBC.

The former English Defence League leader, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, held the event in response to Panorama's investigations into him.

Robinson said the aim of the protest was to make a stand "against the corrupt media" and called for the BBC licence fee to scrapped.

In a statement, a BBC spokeswoman said: "BBC Panorama is investigating Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon. Any programme we broadcast will adhere to the BBC's strict editorial guidelines."

UKIP leader Gerard Batten told demonstrators: "He speaks up for things that are right, he tells the truth and he can mobilise lots of people like you, and that's what they fear."

About 300m away, anti-fascist demonstrators held a counter-protest. They held placards with slogans including "Stand up to racism" and "Stop the fascist Tommy Robinson".

A number of police officers and vehicles were in the area and temporary metal barriers were placed around all of the BBC buildings.

Several restaurants were closed.

The Media City branch of Prezzo had a sign on the door which said: "This restaurant is closed for the safety of our customers and staff due to high numbers being expected to the area."