Anti-immigration march met by counter-protesters in Bristol City Centre

This morning, Sunday 5th October, an anti-immigration march was met with counter-protesters in Bristol City Centre.

Three people were arrested in the midst of the protests on suspicion of either assault or public order offences, according to the police.

Counter-protesters outnumbered those who had turned up to the city centre to demonstrate against immigration policies. Approximately 300-400 counter-protesters gathered by The Cenotaph in opposition.

By 10:30am today, police had set up separate fenced-off zones next to The Cenotaph, for protesters ‘Bristol Patriots’ and those wanting to counter-protest.

A march then took place around 2pm, leading to College Green. It was estimated around 100 people took part.

However, the march was intercepted by counter-protesters as the group travelled from The Cenotaph to College Green.

Ahead of the event, in a pre-issued statement, Inspector John Shaddick, of the Bristol Central Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “Everybody has a fundamental right to protest in the UK. We have a duty to enable peaceful protest, but what we will not tolerate is hate or violence from anyone.

“Not only does providing separate areas for protests provide equal opportunity to both groups, but it should also help maintain public safety and minimise disruption on other people working or visiting Bristol on Sunday, something we are mindful of given the planned procession route by the protest group includes a busy part of the road network.

“We would urge everyone planning to attend to familiarise themselves with the map so they know where they need to be and the relevant timings, with all protest activity needing to conclude by 5pm. Officers will be on the ground and able to advise anyone who is uncertain.

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“Failure to comply with the conditions can be an arrestable offence. By publishing the details of them with several days’ notice we are making sure everyone planning to attend is aware of them and therefore hope no arrests will be necessary.”

Today’s event marks the third organised anti-immigration protest in the city within six weeks.

Whilst the last protesters left the scene around 5pm, earlier in the week, Avon and Somerset Police announced dispersal powers, which can remain in effect until 10pm.