Menu

English Defence League in Preston: No arrests made confirm Lancashire Police

Posted on - 20th February, 2016 - 4:53pm | Author - | Posted in - Crime, Preston City Centre, Preston News
Police officers at the Community Celebration event (Pic: Dawn Mander) and the EDL in Birley Street watched by officers

Police officers at the Community Celebration event (Pic: Dawn Mander) and the EDL in Birley Street watched by officers

Police in Preston have confirmed no arrests were made during a protest in the city by the English Defence League or at a counter demonstration event on the Flag Market.

Between 150 to 200 EDL supporters were marched into Birley Street by police and officers said no disorder took place.

Lancashire Police have extended their thanks to all those who were involved, their officers and members of the public for their patience.

Chief Supt Chris Bithell who led today’s policing operation said: “We estimate that around between 150 – 200 EDL demonstrators were with us this afternoon and that there were around 300 people at the community celebration event. I would like to thank the local community and businesses in the city centre for their tolerance both during the events and in the lead up to them.

“All our officers and staff should also be commended for their efforts, as well as those who have worked alongside us from other organisations, in particular, Preston City Council, community volunteers, marshals and mediators.

“The aim of the policing operation was to allow, with minimum disruption to the city centre, peaceful protests which we have demonstrated is possible through careful planning and successful communication at all levels.

“Again, I would like to thank all involved for their tolerance, understanding and co-operation throughout.”

Recap our live updates from the EDL protest and community day

Were you in the city centre? What did you think of the policing? Let us know in the comments below

Share
Preston in pictures Preston - former Martins Bank, 181 Friargate 241019 2Preston - former Midland Bank, 39:40 Fishergate 241019Preston [Listed Building Grade II] - Shelley Assurance Building 241019Preston [Listed Building Grade II] - TSB Bank, 96 Fishergate 241019Entering Preston Bus StationRamp to the Car Park at Preston Bus StationClaytons Gate PrestonWaiting, Preston Bus Station View more
Advertisement
Subscribe to the newsletter

Sign up below to receive Blog Preston's email newsletter. It wings its way into inboxes every Sunday and Wednesday rounding up our top stories and more.

Advertisement
News by location

Find news by location, select an area of your choice to be kept up to date with the latest goings on.

The Preston Guide

Discover local businesses and services near you.

Advertisement
Categories

Find news by category, select an category of your choice to be kept up to date with the latest goings on.

Blog Preston email updates

Receive our digest of the biggest and best stories every Sunday to your email inbox

We respect your privacy and you can unsubscribe at any time from our emails