Satanists claim Halloween is a Satanic Festival - Christians face up to Satanists

POLICE are monitoring a potential clash between Satanists and Christians tonight.

Both sides have vowed to gather outside The Pitz nightspot in Woughton when hundreds of devil worshippers descend on Milton Keynes for a festival of Satanic music.

But Satanists say it´s the Christians, not themselves who could be arrested if things turn nasty.

Tony Stacey, grottomaster or head of the Milton Keynes branch of the Church of Satan, said: "If things kick off, we can call upon the new Racial and Religious Hatred Bill.

"This creates a new offence of incitement to religious hatred.

"The aim is to protect people from incitement to hatred against them because of their faith, and includes Satanists, pagans and atheists.

"The thing that really gets me is next week they´ll let their kids celebrate Halloween knowing full well that it´s a Satanic festival."

Mr Stacey will be bringing his Satanic bible to the gig to quote to any protesters.

Many different Christian groups with placards are expected to protest outside the concert.

Among them is the Brent Cross-based Jesus House For All Nations.

Spokesman Adewale Adodo, who lives in Neath Hill, Milton Keynes, said: "We will be out there in force with a peaceful protest."

Mr Adodo had also organised a 200-strong petition against the concert which he sent to city MPs Mark Lanacaster and Phyllis Starkey.

Mr Adodo said: "I´m concerned that we´ll be sending out the wrong message if this is allowed to go on.

"Milton Keynes is a shining example of a multicultural society and we shouldn´t let it be tainted by darkness or allow evil to gain ground in any way, shape or form."

Notorious American extreme death metal pioneers Deicide will headline the gig.

The band has Satanic leanings and has been a constant thorn in the side of various American Christian faiths.

A police spokesman said: "Thames Valley Police are aware of the situation and will be monitoring it on a regular basis to ensure the safety of those attending and also to facilitate the right to peaceful protest."

Deicide´s songs include When Heaven Burns and Go Now Your Lord Is Dead.