Anti-racism protestors gather in Newcastle after threat of further disorder in North East
Our reporter Gregg Easteal was at the protest for us this evening.
Anti-racism protestors gathered in Newcastle this evening after threats of more disorder in the region.
Police forces warned that rioters are not welcome in the North East and will “face the full force of the law”.
It comes following scenes of violence in Hartlepool, Sunderland, Middlesbrough and Darlington over recent days.
Hundreds gathered close to an immigration centre in the city.
People on loudspeakers in the crowd could be heard chanting: "We will defend our community.
"They said they'd set this place on fire but they haven't turned up.
"We will show everyone in the North East that we show racism the red card.
"Show them that in the North East we do not cower in the face of tyranny."
Police were in attendance at the gathering in Newcastle this evening after warning that rioters would feel the "full force of the law".
Mr Ahmed said Newcastle "is not a racist city"
Irfan Ahmed who runs a nearby Mosque said tonight's display was about showing "solidarity against racism and fascism".
He added: "It pains us very much to see what's going on up and down the UK.
"I was born here I support Newcastle United, I've got a box in Newcastle United, I'm a die hard Newcastle fan and I will be till I die.
"It just seems like everyone is on edge, a very uneasy feeling which is making ripples through the whole of the Newcastle community.
"Newcastle, it's a city of peace and unity, it always has been. It's not a racist city, we are a multicultural society and we're very proud of Newcastle Upon Tyne.
"We're here tonight to show that this is our community, we won't be intimidated and threatened in any way.
"Nobody is scared, we're just here to show solidarity against racism and fascism."
Another protestor in the crowd was Jennifer Campbell.
She said her friends, who migrated from the Middle East 6 years ago, were scared to come out of their homes due to recent far-right disorder across the country.
Ms Campbell added: "They're lovely people and they make brilliant contributions to our society.
"Thats why I'm here to let people know that we're not scared and we won't be bullied by these people.
"We've got to stand together.
"We stand in solidarity with people who are from different countries, refugees are welcome here and we want them to know that they are safe in Newcastle City centre and they always will be."
Three people have been arrested following planned protests in Newcastle and Sunderland on Wednesday.
Northumbria Police said the evening had “largely passed without incident” as they thanked people for their support.
The arrests made were in connection with public order offences and being drunk and disorderly, the force said on social media.
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