Police on alert for Bradford protests

POLICE are making preparations for a demonstration in Bradford which could see clashes between a far-right group and their opponents.
By The Newsroom
Published 26th Aug 2010, 16:19 BST
Updated 27th Aug 2010, 11:25 BST

West Yorkshire Police are planning for possible trouble on Saturday between the English Defence League and Unite Against Fascism.

Home Secretary Theresa May authorised a blanket ban on marches in the city, but the two groups are still expected to hold static demonstrations.

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Locations have now been confirmed, with the EDL demonstration taking place in the city's Urban Gardens, while Unite Against Fascism/We Are Bradford will hold a protest at the Crown Court Plaza.

A community celebration event called Be Bradford - Peaceful Together is also taking place at Infirmary Fields.

A police spokesman said: "There will be a significant, high-profile policing operation in place in order to ensure public safety.

"West Yorkshire Police's role is to facilitate peaceful protest. If anyone commits a criminal offence they will be dealt with fairly but firmly. The police will not tolerate damage to the city or acts of violence."

The proposed demonstrations have raised fears of a possible repeat of the devastating 2001 riots following an attempted march by the National Front.

Related topics:West Yorkshire PolicePoliceBradfordTheresa May