Around 1,000 police officers have been deployed to the streets of the capital
Thousands of people travelled to central London for a march led by right-wing activist Tommy Robinson, at the same time as a counter-protest. "Rule Britannia", "We want our country back", and Mr Robinson's name echoed through the streets as his supporters rallied around midday on Saturday on the Strand, raising Union, English, Scottish, and Welsh flags.
About 1,000 police officers were on duty to "keep the peace" amid the opposing demonstrations. Mr Robinson, otherwise known as Stephen Yaxley Lennon, shared in a post on 'X' that this would be "the biggest patriotic rally the UK has ever seen".Starting from the Royal Courts of Justice, his demonstration progressed towards Trafalgar Square for a gathering around 12.45pm.
Police have already exercised powers under the Public Order Act to separate the opposing groups amid concerns of significant disruption.Chief Superintendent Colin Wingrove, heading this weekend's operations, has issued a stern warning that officers will "intervene decisively" against protesters who flout the strict conditions on when and where demonstrations are permitted.
"We have proactively used our powers under the Public Order Act to manage the timings and routes of marches and assemblies, ensuring that the groups are kept apart.
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