Dozens of senior church leaders have publicly criticised the use of Christian symbols at a far-right rally in London led by Tommy Robinson.

In an open letter, bishops, former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams, and leaders from the Methodist, Baptist, Evangelical, Salvation Army and Catholic traditions said they were “deeply concerned about the co-opting of Christian symbols, particularly the cross, during Saturday’s ‘Unite the Kingdom’ rally.”

The signatories acknowledged frustrations among protesters and affirmed free speech but stressed that aspects of the march carried “racist, anti-Muslim and far right elements".

They continued: “As Christians from different theological and political backgrounds we stand together against the misuse of Christianity.

"The cross is the ultimate sign of sacrifice for the other. Jesus calls us to love both our neighbours and our enemies and to welcome the stranger. Any co-opting or corrupting of the Christian faith to exclude others is unacceptable.”

The letter concluded with a call for unity: “As Christian leaders we are proud of our country and commit ourselves to work with others building a more United Kingdom where the values of love, humility and compassion shine through in every community; and we do so unapologetically in the name of Jesus Christ.”