Five members and supporters of the British National Party made a surprise appearance at a Malmesbury Town Council meeting on Tuesday.

The BNP members offered a challenge to deputy mayor Patrick Goldstone, who was absent from the meeting.

Coun Goldstone last week branded the BNP cowards after they changed venue to avoid facing protestors.

The BNP had planned to meet at the Three Cups Pub but moved to a secret location at the last minute to avoid confrontation.

Coun Goldstone accused them of being "chicken" and unwilling to discuss their policies in public.

In response the BNP arrived unexpectedly at this week's council meeting and challenged Coun Goldstone to a public debate.

Wiltshire BNP chairman Mike Howseman said: "The BNP members issued a challenge for an open and reasonable debate. As part of the democratic process they have a right to air their views. They were not scared and they will be there to support the policies we bring forward.

"They explained that the people of Malmesbury have a voice. I think initially the council were quite shocked."

Mayor Charles Vernon, who attended the meeting, admitted: "We were rather surprised. We weren't expecting them. But they are perfectly entitled to come along to any council meeting."

Coun Goldstone said he was unable to attend because he was at a mayoral meeting in Salisbury that overran.

"I have no idea what was said. But I would not be prepared to debate with people who do not live in the same world as I do," said Coun Goldstone.

Coun Vernon added that Malmesbury town council was apolitical.

"We don't have any particular group represented on the council. We would not meet with any particular party at all.

"There seemed to be a challenge for one of the councillors to enter into a debate. He was not there. It is up to him to decide what he wants to do."