London businesses boarded up and forced to close early amid fears of disorder
People living in Finchley said news about potential disorder was 'worrying'
Shops and restaurants in parts of London were forced to close early amid fears of disorder on Wednesday night.
Businesses were worried about a possible clash between far right and anti-racist protesters.
Social media posts have suggested a company offering “Immigration and Nationality” services could be one of a number of targets for the far right.
Posters advertising a counter demonstration by Stand Up To Racism have also appeared in the area.
A branch of estate agent Foxtons on the High Road in Finchley has been boarded up and many other traders shut up shop.
Unal Ozdemir, owner of La Mia Pizza restaurant told ITV News the threat of trouble will hit his business.
"It is gong to affect our business - we are going to have to close [early] because people worry about this protest," he told ITV News London.
"We are not going to make any money today. It's no good for the community, no good for business, we are not happy.
"I respect democratic protest but this is not good," he added.
Officers from Scotland Yard’s riot squad, the Territorial Support Group have been seen in the area.
Neighbours of a barber shop say the owner painted over the word ‘Turkish’ to avoid it becoming a target.
"Everyone's a bit worried," said one neighbour.
"A few shops have boarded up and we are quite concerned. I just came for coffee and even that I wasn't sure I could do.
"I'm going home early but hopeing it doesn't happen at all. We are all quite concerned," she explained.
Below: Hundreds of people in Walthamstow in an anti-racism protest on Wednesday night
The Mayor of London has urged people to “check on their friends and neighbours” and wrote on X: “The disorder, racism and violence that we have seen in towns and cities across the country in the last week have been truly shocking.
“I’m aware of reports that far-right groups are now planning to target locations in London and I want to be very clear to anyone thinking of spreading hatred and fear in our city: if you break the law, action will be taken against you.
“Acts of violence and disorder on the streets of London will not be tolerated and, if you commit a crime, you will be arrested and face the full force of the law.
“I am in constant touch with the Met, City Hall and the police are working closely with community leaders and local organisations to protect targeted buildings and places of worship, as well as provide reassurance for Londoners.
Elsewhere, an office worker in the City of London said he and his colleagues have been told to leave their office near Liverpool Street due to “planned riots” in the area.
He said that employees have been advised to work from home for the remainder of the week and not to attend the London office.
A cross-party statement from the London Assembly added: “The violent and racist disorder seen across the country in recent days is completely unacceptable, and we are deeply concerned by reports of potential disruption in London tonight.
“It is vital that Londoners come together to support each other, to show unity with those being targeted by these senseless acts, and to reject the hate of the small minority trying to divide us.
“Our thoughts are with all those affected by the disorder across the country, and with the police officers who bravely put themselves on the frontline to keep us safe.”
Walthamstow MP Stella Creasy has said there is a “three-figure” police presence in the London borough.
Walthamstow Central bus station has also been closed since 6pm, Ms Creasy added.
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