Nigel Farage quickly condemned the masked men who blocked roads in Dover, calling their actions "horrible." However, just days later, the Reform party, which Farage leads, found itself dealing with internal conflict over the group of activists known as Patriot Platform. The group, made up of black-clad members, gained public attention after their protest in Dover, but their presence has sparked unease among some party members and local councillors. While some have criticized the group, others have praised them as "patriots," creating a divide within the party. The controversy has been further complicated by the involvement of Ryan Bridge, a co-founder of the anti-migrant group Raise the Colours. Bridge, who was recently charged with 14 offenses, including racially aggravated harassment, was given a prominent platform at Reform's conference. Farage publicly pledged to "legally back" Bridge's efforts. Bridge has denied any connection to Patriot Platform, but he has worked closely with Daniel Thomas, the leader of Patriot Platform. The situation has grown more tense after police clashed with masked activists in Portsmouth, where Thomas confronted Reform's home affairs spokesperson, Zia Yusuf, challenging criticism of the group. Despite some Reform members condemning the use of face coverings by Patriot Platform, others have shown support for their cause. Kent County Council leader Linden Kemkaran, who represents Dover, suggested that if the government stopped migrant boats, people might not feel the need to protest. Meanwhile, some local politicians have praised the activists for their efforts to stop what they see as an "invasion" of the country. However, there has also been open dissent within the party, with some members expressing concern over Farage's criticism of the Dover protest and the fear activists might face for speaking out. The internal divisions have been highlighted by Tameside councillor Sharon Barker, who wrote on Facebook about strong feelings within the party regarding Farage's comments. She argued that many protesters were "brave, passionate patriots" who had real reasons for hiding their identities, including fear of losing their jobs. The party's local leader, Allan Hopwood, acknowledged the sensitivity of the issue, emphasizing the need to focus on democratic politics. The situation is further complicated by the presence of a right-wing rival party, Restore Britain, which is challenging Reform's influence in certain areas. Farage's support for Bridge and the Patriot Platform has come at a critical time as he tries to boost Reform's poll numbers by attracting wavering Conservative voters. While he has historically claimed credit for defeating the British National Party, Reform now faces the risk of losing support on its right flank to Restore Britain. The party has not yet commented on the ongoing controversy.