Bristol protests: 16 people arrested after 'thuggery' and scenes of violence
Police have arrested 16 people so far after scenes of violence in Bristol on Saturday.
Tempers flared at a counter-demonstration to a far-right rally in Castle Park, with protesters gathering from 6pm.
The original "stop the boats" rally was due to start at 7pm and was one of several organised across the country.
However, scores of people turned up to condemn the rally, causing clashes between protestors on either side.
It follows the deaths of three young girls who were killed in a knife attack in Southport on Monday. You can find more on that here.
Avon and Somerset Police deployed its mounted and dog sections to help officers disperse the crowds from the city centre.
The force said 16 people had been arrested during the scenes of violence and it condemned the "thuggery" on display.
Police say the offences they were arrested for included affray, racially-aggravated public order, animal cruelty, assaulting an emergency worker and violent disorder.
They added that objects, including glass bottles, were thrown and an officer had a laser shone in their eyes. A police horse was also punched and two police dogs were kicked.
Neighbourhood Chief Inspector Vicks Hayward-Melen said: "Some of the scenes we saw in Bristol tonight [Saturday 3 August] were completely unacceptable.
"We will always facilitate peaceful and lawful protests, however the behaviour from a minority of people tonight crossed the line.
"This was a dynamic police operation and significant policing resources were put in place.
"We have a long history of facilitating peaceful protest in Bristol, but what we saw last night was not a protest and we will never accept such shameful scenes.
"Those responsible can expect a knock at the door from us soon – we will be relentless in identifying and bringing to justice those who brought criminal violence and disorder to the streets of Bristol yesterday.
"I am incredibly proud of my colleagues who were faced with significant violence and want to also recognise everyone who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to deliver the policing operation yesterday and those who are continuing the investigation today.
"Thankfully we're not aware of any significant damage being caused in the city other than to one police vehicle and I'd like to thank our communities and all our partners and stakeholders for their support."
Police and crime commissioner to reassure Bristol's diverse communities
Clare Moody, police and crime commissioner for Avon and Somerset, has also condemned the disorder, saying it was a "small but violent group" behind it.
She added: "This behaviour is not protest. It is not an expression of legitimate concern. It is criminal.
"These actions do not represent the values of Bristol or the wider Avon and Somerset area.
"We are a strong, diverse and vibrant community where people from all walks of life live peacefully alongside one another.
"I want to extend my gratitude to the police officers who have been on the front lines, dealing with these disturbances with professionalism and courage.
"Their dedication to protecting the public and maintaining order is commendable, recognising the distinction between legitimate protest and the criminal behaviours that took place last night.
"These actions will have consequences and I welcome Keir Starmer and Yvette Cooper’s commitment to ensure that those involved will face the full force of the law.
"I will also continue to engage with our diverse communities to ensure that everyone feels safe and supported.
"Now is a time for calm and reflection. We must use the actions of the few as a spur to strengthen our commitment to our unity and solidarity with each other."
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