Smoke bomb and eggs thrown at English Defence League march

A smoke bomb, eggs and bottles were thrown between a group of English Defence League members and a counter protest in Nottingham.

Some 160 EDL supporters gathered in Nottingham's Old Market Square with a counter-demonstration attracting around 400 people with onlookers.

Despite occasional missile throwing, a heavy police presence including 22 forces including specialist and mounted officers ensured the protests took place relatively peacefully.

A heavy police presence surrounds approximately 160 EDL supporters. Credit: PA

The beach at Nottingham's Old Market Square was closed on Saturday afternoon while the protests took place, with Nottingham City Council taking the decision following "concerns about the safety of children and families".

Nottinghamshire Police said five people were arrested in connection with the demonstrations, and there were no reports of injury or assault.

People protesting against the EDL march shouted 'Nazi scum, off our streets!' Credit: PA

EDL supporters held banners with anti-Islam slogans, including "No Halal for UK!" and "No Sharia for UK!".

Anti-EDL protesters chanted "Nazi scum, off our streets!" and "Whose streets? Our streets!"

Chief Inspector Andy Hall from Nottinghamshire Police said: "Protecting the public has always been our absolute priority and while these events do bring an element of localised disruption, our officers have done all they can to help minimise that and allow people to continue to go about their everyday lives.

"While not everyone will agree with the sentiment behind today's demonstration, Nottinghamshire Police does have an obligation to facilitate the right to a peaceful protest and we would also like to thank the majority of demonstrators on both sides who did behave responsibly."