Police pleased after Pegida protest passes off with just one arrest

Solihull Police Commander, Chief Superintendent Alex Murray Credit: ITV Central News

The protest that took place in Birmingham today by right-wing movement Pegida, passed off without major incident, with just a single arrest.

Around 200 members of the organisation staged a rally at Starley Way, in Birmingham International Business Park, between 2-3pm following a short parade from the nearby train station.

A small group of counter demonstrators were present but the police ensured that rival factions were kept apart and minimised the risk of any flashpoints.

There were no reports of serious disorder or injuries - the only arrest was a 39-year-old man, from the counter demo, muster point for a public order related matter.

Our report Chris Halpin spoke to Solihull Police Commander, Chief Superintendent Alex Murray about the operation.