MARGARET Thatcher's funeral will not be shown on the big screen in Swansea's Castle Square, due to fears of a protest, Swansea Council revealed yesterday.
A group had intended to protest in Castle Square, if the funeral of the former Prime Minister had been screened.
However, a council spokesman said: "Along with a number of other cities, we've chosen not to screen Baroness Thatcher's funeral to avoid any potential for disruption, damage or protest."
Rhian Brenton, who spearheaded the call for protests in Castle Square today, online through Twitter and Facebook, was pleased at the announcement.
She said: "I don't want to celebrate Thatcher's death, I just don't want it shoved in my face when I'm walking through town.
"I think a lot of Thatcher's policies generally promote self interest and were bad for people in South Wales who have suffered. We shouldn't be funding, as a country, such an ornate funeral at a time of economic recession."
However, the council's decision not to show the funeral, confirmed yesterday afternoon, has not been universally welcomed.
Councillor Paxton Hood- Williams, Group Leader of Swansea Council Conservatives, said: "It is a matter of deep regret that people in Swansea will not have the opportunity to pay their respects to our first and only female Prime Minister.
"When we consider the massive amount of tributes she has received, it is apparent that she was a truly remarkable stateswoman, Prime Minister and lady."
Anthony Colburn, Conservative councillor for Oystermouth added: "Personally I think it is extremely sad that this decision has been reached.
"If there were those who wished to protest then one presumes they would have protested in a respectful and peaceful manner so there is no reason not to show it."
To mark the funeral of Baroness Thatcher the National Union of Miners has given all of their staff and members the day off.
A spokesman said: "Whether staff want to celebrate or commiserate is up to them."
Baroness Thatcher will receive a ceremonial funeral with military honours today. More than 700 servicemen, including members of the Welsh Guards will attend her funeral, lining the streets of London as the coffin makes its way to St Paul's Cathedral.
