Six arrested at protest and items thrown at police

Six people have been arrested at a protest march and counter-protest in Bristol in which items were thrown at officers.

Among the detainees were a 37-year-old man arrested on suspicion of causing fear or provocation of violence, and a 60-year-old man arrested on suspicion of assault by beating and affray.

The march was organised by a group called Bristol Patriots, whose website says it aims to "Get Starmer Out and stop the boats". About 40 members attended.

About 200 counter-protesters turned up and disorder broke out between the two sides, police said.

Avon and Somerset Police – who sent 200 officers – said they had to use "proportionate force" to ensure safety and to keep the groups apart, using batons and horses to push back crowds.

Officers said about 40 protesters gathered at Bristol Cenotaph aiming to march through Castle Park and back to the same point.

Police said they had to redirect them to keep the two groups separate.

Police also arrested a 39-year-old man on suspicion of obstructing or resisting a constable and a 23-year-old man on suspicion of violent disorder.

A woman, 23, was arrested on suspicion of assaulting an emergency worker and obstructing or resisting a constable in execution of their duty.

Another woman, 27, was arrested on suspicion of failing to provide details upon request and acting in an anti-social manner.

Officers from Wiltshire Police, Gloucestershire Constabulary, and Devon & Cornwall Police came to assist, with horse and dogs units deployed.

By 15:30 GMT, police said attendees had dispersed.

Neighbour Policing Inspector John Shaddick said the protests were "closely planned for".

"Our priority throughout was clear: to facilitate the right to peaceful protest while keeping the public, businesses, and participants safe," he said.

"There were periods of disruption caused by a small number of individuals.

"Where behaviour crossed the line into disorder, officers acted proportionately and used appropriate force to quickly regain control and prevent further harm."

He added that the "majority exercised their right to protest and counter-protest peacefully".