Region shows its support for Black Lives Matter protests

The region has voiced its support for the Black Live Matter protests currently taking place in cities across the United States of America.

The protests were spawned in Minneapolis following the death of George Floyd. A police officer has been charged with his murder.

In our region, people have tried to show their support:

Southend is planning a socially distanced protest at The Forum on Saturday.

A protest is also being staged in Cambridge on Saturday, starting at Parker's Piece. The demonstration will then march through the City centre. A poster detailing the event urges all attendees to wear gloves and masks.

Street artist Nath Murdoch painted a powerful anti-racism mural in Peterborough.

The artist was recently contacted by a woman in Minneapolis, Minnesota, telling him how poignant the artwork was and that she hoped it would resonate with her community following the death of George Floyd in the city on May 25, and the ensuing protests that have spread around the world.

An outpouring of support could be seen across the east. Norwich City Council lit up City Hall in remembrance of Mr Floyd and Stevenage's iconic clocktower was also illuminated in purple in a show of solidarity.

Bedford MP Mohammad Yasin also tweeted his thoughts about the importance of fighting for equality.

Formula One World Champion Lewis Hamilton, who drives for Brackley-based Mercedes, slammed his sport for failing to speak out on issues of race in a post on Instagram.

Stevenage-born Hamilton, who is still the only black driver in F1, wrote about George Floyd, saying he felt alone. His post sparked a number of responses from his fellow drivers and support from his team.

The region's sports teams also tweeted their support for inclusion and anti-racism.

Watch ITV News Robert Moore's latest report on the protests in the USA