Police reveal how many officers were injured during ugly violence in Rotherham

The first people charged with participating in the violent riots in Merseyside and the North East are due to be seen in court for the first time later today, for a range of charges related to the wave of violence over the past few days which has seen police officers assaulted, shops looted, property damaged and multiple fires started.

The court appearances also follow on from the government’s pledge to come down harshly on criminals, with PM Sir Keir Starmer having already pledged that “those who have participated in this violence will face the full force of the law.”

One police officer has suffered what is believed to be a broken arm while responding to the violent scenes in Tamworth yesterday.

Speaking about the shocking scenes, Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Ellison said: “The senseless violence and acts of despicable thuggery in Tamworth tonight are completely inexcusable. The local community do not deserve to be subject to this behaviour, and neither do the brave officers putting themselves in harm’s way to keep everyone safe.

“I want to echo the messaging that police forces have been championing nationally following the events across the country this week: we will be using footage from CCTV, air support and our officers’ body-worn video devices to identify those responsible and seek the toughest possible punishment for these acts of senseless violence.

“Officers have shown tremendous courage in responding to the disorder that unfolded tonight, as well as those that worked valiantly at the protests seen in Stoke-on-Trent on Saturday.

“There have already been more than 100 arrests nationally in connection with these acts and I expect those who are identified will meet the full force of the law.”

The violent disorder in Tamworth on Sunday evening has now ended, Tamworth Police have confirmed.

A large-scale policing operation with specialist public order resources, supported by colleagues from neighbouring police forces, was deployed proactively to the area after the crowd quickly became hostile, clearly intent on attacking the hotel and police officers.

Police officers were faced with being attacked with petrol bombs and fireworks and damage was caused to the hotel by protesters, with the lives of residents inside put at risk. Fortunately, no one inside was injured. With the additional support provided from neighbouring police forces, officers were able to rapidly disperse the crowds and restore a level of calm.

Officers from the Tamworth Local Policing Team will continue to patrol the area overnight to gather evidence and provide reassurance to the local community.

In addiiton, specialist drone surveillance and the National Police Air Service (NPAS) have been sweeping the area as our efforts to identify those intent on violent disorder continue.

Cleveland Police have confirmed that the violent disorder seen in Middlesbrough has now ended.

However, they did add that a visible policing presence will remain in the town throughout the night and into tomorrow and the coming days.

As of 1:30am, the total number of arrests made in connection with the incidents stands at 43. A full investigation is now underway.

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has shared his anger over the weekend’s violent riots.

In a new statement he says: ”Everyone across the UK was shocked and appalled by the dreadful attack in Southport on Monday, which took the lives of three innocent little girls.

"Most people have come together to grieve with love and compassion. But sadly, a minority of far-right extremists have disgraced themselves by exploiting this tragedy to commit appalling acts of violence, targeting Muslims, asylum seekers and communities of colour.”

He added: "I am deeply angered by the riots and disorder that we have seen these past few days and welcome the extra protections now in place. This lawlessness is unacceptable and it must be stopped and those responsible must face the full force of the law.

"And amidst these awful scenes, we should all take heart from the immense compassion, kindness and decency shown by the vast majority, not least those communities who are being specifically targeted. Their example is one we must all follow."

Keir Starmer will chair an emergency Cobra meeting today with senior police officials in response to widespread scenes of rioting.

It comes after the PM insisted far-right thugs will face justice for the riots which gripped the country over the weekend. Towns and cities across England suffered violence, disorder and looting at the hands of hate-filled anti-migrant mobs.

The PM used an emergency statement from No10 last night to tell those involved: “I guarantee you will regret taking part.” He added: “Whether directly, or those whipping up this action online, and then running away themselves. This is not a protest. It is organised, violent thuggery.

“Be in no doubt, those that have participated in this violence will face the full force of the law. The police will be making arrests. Individuals will be held on remand, charges will follow and convictions will follow.”

Solihull Police have confirmed that they are in attendance this evening at a “mass gathering” in the Hermitage Road area, after receiving a number of calls from concerned residents.

A counter-terrorism director has slammed the way South Yorkshire Police handled the violent scenes in Rotherham on Sunday, even going so far as to accuse the force's leadership team of "serious failure”.

Nick Aldworth, from Carlisle Support Services, shared his “disappointment” with Sky News, as he told the outlet: “I have an intelligence document dated two days ago that highlighted an extreme right-wing protest at this location at 12pm today.

“With two days' preparation time, I wouldn’t expect protesters to be able to get to the venue like this.

"Those poor officers with their backs to the wall having items thrown at them… I would suggest there's been a really serious failure by the planners and senior leadership team in South Yorkshire Police.

"This is just not good enough.”

Tory leader Rishi Sunak condemned the “violent, criminal behaviour” on Sunday evening saying: “The shocking scenes we’re seeing on the streets of Britain have nothing to do with the tragedy in Southport.

“This is violent, criminal behaviour that has no place in our society.

“The police have our full support to deal with these criminals swiftly and they must face the full weight of the law.”

A man was rushed to hospital after being attacked with a hammer in what is believed to have been a racially-motivated attack in Kirkdale.

Merseyside Police confirmed officers were called to Wykeham Street just after 1.35pm to a report that three men had attacked a man in his 20s with a hammer, hitting him on the head in an alleyway.

The victim was rushed to hospital where he remained in a stable condition this evening. The force confirmed it believes the attack was racially-motivated and two men have since been detained.

A fourth man has been charged with committing violent disorder in Liverpool city centre yesterday.

Merseyside Police have said the man was detained after he was seen with a group behaving aggressively and throwing missiles towards police.

He has been remanded into custody.

Six people have been charged in connection with “disgraceful scenes” of violent disorder in Sunderland on Friday, Northumbria Police have said.

A police office was looted and a Citizens Advice Bureau office set alight. The number of arrests made over the disorder is now 14.

Four men aged 48, 41, 31 and 29, and one woman aged 43, have been charged with violent disorder.

A man aged 27 has been charged with one count of violent disorder and one count of burglary. They will appear before magistrates on Monday.

Chief Superintendent Mark Hall, of Northumbria Police, said: “We have made further arrests as our full investigation into Friday’s appalling incident continues.

“I would like to reassure the public that our investigative efforts will not stop and further arrests are expected in the coming days.

“We will absolutely not tolerate the behaviour seen in Sunderland city centre, now or ever, and will do our utmost to trace those responsible and have them brought to justice.”

Rioters are stoking up another bonfire on the main road to the Rotherham refugee hotel.

Tommy Robinson is enjoying himself in the sun while his supporters continue to wreak havoc in towns and cities across the UK.

The former leader of the English Defence League has been pictured sunning himself at a five-star holiday resort on the outskirts of Ayia Napa, Cyprus.

He is reportedly staying there with his family and friends having left the UK amid an arrest warrant issued against him last Monday after he skipped a court appearance.

MailOnline revealed his whereabouts as he continues to lead his controversial movement from abroad.

Tamworth police have urged the public to avoid the area around the Holiday Inn as specialist officers "continue to deal with violent acts of thuggery" tonight.

"A large group of individuals are in the area and have been throwing projectiles, smashing windows, starting fires and targeting police," the force said.

They also said one officer has been injured. Specialist drones have been sweeping the area.

He said: "The ongoing violent and chaos in Middlesbrough is absolutely unacceptable. These people will be dealt with by the police and will feel the full force of the law.

"Everyone should avoid the town centre and stay inside while the authorities deal with the situation.

"These people do not represent Middlesbrough, neither does their hate or actions.

"I know as a town we will come together to help fix what they have broken and show the kind Middlesbrough I know and love."

Natasha Tsangarides, associate director of advocacy at Freedom from Torture, said: “It’s horrific to see the scenes of violence in Rotherham and across the country targeting refugees and other minority communities.

“Make no mistake, this is no accident. This is the result of years of divisive politics, demonisation and dehumanisation.

“Images of people attacking and setting fires to hotels housing refugees – men, women and children who’ve fled unimaginable violence like torture – are a stark and chilling reminder that hateful rhetoric inspires hateful acts.

“The Prime Minister is right to condemn these attacks. No-one should feel unsafe in Britain and refugees must never be singled out as targets for far-right violence and intimidation.

“Those seeking sanctuary must be housed in safe and dignified housing, where they can recover and rebuild their lives in peace.”

Malaysia has become the first country to warn its citizens against visiting the UK as riots across the country continue.

Sir Keir Starmer said rioters would "regret" engaging in "far-right thuggery" after a sixth day of escalating violence in England today.

In a televised address to the nation, the prime minister condemned an attack on a hotel housing asylum seekers in Rotherham and promised those involved in unrest would "face the full force of the law".

He suggested that rioters taking to the streets, and those "whipping up this action online and then running away themselves," would face consequences.

He also indicated the response to the violence could mirror elements of how the 2011 riots were handled, at which time he was director of public prosecutions.

Police have moved protestors onto the beach in Weymouth, according to reports.

A video taken by an asylum seeker in the Rotherham Holiday Inn shows a masked man drawing his hand across his throat.

Migrants said they were “scared” as ten thugs marauded through the Rotherham hotel.

The far-right gang smashed in the windows and set fire to a generator.

Rioters have gathered outside a Holiday Inn in Tamworth, Staffordshire They appear to have met a wall of police officers.

This comes after a Rotherham Holiday Inn reportedly housing asylum seekers was broken into and set on fire by far-right gangs.

Officers have regained access to the Rotherham Holiday Inn and are continuing to disperse the group away from the area.

A generator was also set alight, and a number of small grass fires were set. South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service worked to extinguish these quickly.

One person has been arrested on suspicion of public order offences.

A heavy police presence will remain outside the hotel and in the surrounding area over the course of the rest of this evening and into tomorrow.

Assistant Chief Constable Lindsey Butterfield said: “Today in Rotherham we have seen our officers attacked and at least ten injured, significant damage caused and a fire set outside a hotel full of terrified residents and staff.

"The mindless actions of those today have achieved nothing other than sheer destruction and leaving members of the public and the wider community in fear.

“The behaviour we witnessed has been nothing short of disgusting. While it was a smaller number of those in attendance who chose to commit violence and destruction, those who simply stood on and watched remain absolutely complicit in this.

"Those who choose to spread misinformation and hate online, also need to take responsibility for the scenes today. This was not a protest, just angry people, reacting to a false narrative, shared by people who have their own motivations for doing so.

“All today has achieved is the diversion of police and partner resources, operational police officers who will now be away from active duty while they recover from their injuries, and the continued use of public money to clean up the mess they have left behind.

“Please be assured, our work does not end today – we have officers working hard, reviewing the considerable online imagery and footage of those involved, and they should expect us to be at their doors very soon."

South Yorkshire Police said at least 10 officers have been injured - including one who was left unconscious - as a result of "deplorable acts of violence" outside the Holiday Inn Express hotel in the Manvers area of Rotherham.

"We absolutely condemn the scenes of disorder we witnessed, with a total of around 700 people in attendance in Manvers Way earlier today," a statement said.

"A number of people threw planks of wood at our officers and sprayed them with fire extinguishers before smashing hotel windows to gain access to the premises.

"A large bin close to a window of the hotel was also set alight causing a small fire which was later extinguished, with missiles, including glass bottles and beer cans, thrown at our officers.

"At least 10 officers have been injured as a result of the violence, with one left unconscious following a head injury, another suffering a suspected fractured elbow and others suffering suspected broken bones.

"No hotel employees or residents have been reported as injured as a result of today's disorder."

Three men have been charged with committing violent disorder in Liverpool city centre after riots this weekend.

Jimmy Bailey, 45, of Station Avenue in Ellesmere Port, has been charged with committing violent disorder after a group was seen throwing stones, bricks and missiles at police on Saturday. He has been remanded into custody to appear at Liverpool Magistrates' Court tomorrow.

The force has also charged a man after an attempt was made to set a police van on fire in the city.

The vehicle had been parked on William Brown Street and the flames were extinguished before significant damage or harm could be caused, police said.

A man was detained near the scene shortly after the incident.

Declan Geiran, 29, of Kelso Road in Liverpool, has been charged with violent disorder and arson. He has also been remanded into custody to appear at Liverpool Magistrates' Court tomorrow.

Lloyd Killner, 35, of Burton Road in Lincoln, has also been charged with violent disorder after a group was seen in Stanley Street charging and swearing at officers, and throwing missiles. He will appear at the same court tomorrow.

Express.co.uk reporter Mieka Smiles is reporting from the scene in Middlesbrough.

The town centre has been deserted by rioters and streets littered with abandoned bricks and signs. One reads: "Not far right, (it's what's) right.

"Tom Jones is Welsh, Axel Rudakuban (isn't)! He is a (child) killer"

There is also a helicopter flying overhead.

Tom Witherow from the Times shared a video of a clash between rioters and police in Rotherham.

It was captioned: "Riot police are still facing street battles with around 60 teenagers and young men at the migrant hotel in Rotherham."

Police around Derby Street in Bolton have reportedly asked counter-protesters to return home.

Earlier this evening, the road had been blocked off by riot officers from Greater Manchester Police.

Locals had raised concerns with officers that their mosque would be attacked if they left the area.

Sir Keir Starmer is not going on holiday this week, Downing Street has confirmed amid reports he was set to jet off as rioting sweeps the country.

The Prime Minister will be working from No 10 all week as the government deals with the crisis.

Reports emerged that Sir Keir was planning to go on holiday on Monday, which sparked fierce criticism, including from a frontrunner for the Tory leadership.

It comes as Sir Keir faces demands from senior MPs to recall Parliament so that they can debate the Government’s handling of the disorder.

There is "real damage in our communities", the chief executive of the advocacy group Hope not Hate has told Sky News.

Nick Lowles said the prime minister's latest statement was "strong" and he "said what needed saying".

"We need to stop this violence and people need to be held accountable," he said.

"There is real damage in our communities - there probably already was.

"Attitudes towards Britain's multicultural society was worsening and communities are so scared.

"We have to rebuild and that has to be a national mission."

He went on to say in Sunderland and Southport "ordinary people came out to clean up and show solidarity".

"That's who the British people are. It isn't these mindless racist thugs."

Mosques are set to be offered greater protection with new emergency security that can be rapidly deployed, under new arrangements announced by the Home Secretary today.

The new rapid response process means mosques at risk of violent disorder can be offered additional security personnel, providing communities with vital support and reassurance.

Police, local authorities and mosques can ask for rapid security to be deployed to protect communities.

Residents in Liverpool have blasted rioters in Liverpool as worse than Nazis.

Debbie Stokes and her husband Andy turned out to help clean up the street following the devastating scenes.

She said: "How scary it must have been for people living above these shops. This didn’t happen in my name.

"I’m disgusted to see what happened with the library. Nazis burn books - these have gone one step further and burnt a library."When fire crews arrived to put out the flames, the thugs attacked them too - attempting to block them from extinguishing the fire.

Callym Moore, 26, whose mum manages the Spellow Hub said: "It is baffling, I saw pictures of kids in balaclavas doing this. That place is supposed to be a safe space for them, for those same kids.

"They have absolutely no idea what they are doing, they don't know what they are supposed to be protesting about and they don't know what the consequences are for other people. What do their mums and dads think they were doing?

"This is a deprived community and this was a safe space to help people in that community, local people, local kids. Now it has just been ruined by these mindless idiots."

Rioters in Middlesbrough are setting fire to wheelie bins and pushing them towards a line of police officers, leaving smoking rubbish across the road.

Groups are also throwing bricks and bottles at officers and a car has been set on fire.

Sir Keir Starmer is giving an update on the wave of disorder occurring across the UK.

Speaking from Downing Street, he says those that have participated in the violence "will face the full force of the law".

"I guarantee you will regret taking part in this disorder either directly or those whipping up this disorder online ," he warns.

He says right now there are attacks happening on a hotel in Rotherham.

"There is no justification for taking this action," he adds.

"People in this country have a right to be safe and yet we have seen Muslim communities targeted and attacks on mosques."

The PM says "he won't shy away from calling it what it is" and that is "far-right thuggery".

"To those who feel targeted because of the colour of your skin or your faith I know how frightening this must be," he says.

"I want you to know this violent mob do not represent this country and we will bring them to justice."

Sir Keir adds "this is violence" and "not protest".

"I think there needs to be the full force of the law and it needs to be swift," he adds.

James Cleverly has hit out at rioters, saying they should be met with "the full weight of the law".

The shadow home secretary, who is running to be Conservative Party leader, wrote on X: "There is not and can never be any excuse, justification or rationale for behaviour like this.

"This should be condemned by everybody, and those taking part should expect to be met with the full weight of the law."

Two more orders which grant police extra powers have been authorised and put in place in Bolton.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) say a Section 60 and a Section 60 AA order are now in force.

Chief Inspector Natasha Evans said: "We are working with organisers of the pre-planned protests to help facilitate peaceful protest and prevent disruption.

"You will see we continue to have a large presence in the town and these additional powers, on top of those authorised earlier which allow us to disperse crowds, will allow us to prevent incidents and keep people safe.

“If you are unsure about anything, speak with one of our officers on the ground, they are there to help."

Avon and Somerset police have said they have so far arrested 16 people as they continue with their investigations into the violent disorder in Bristol city centre last night.

The offences they were arrested for included affray, racially aggravated public order, animal cruelty, assaulting an emergency worker and violent disorder.

They also said 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.

Chief inspector Vicks Hayward-Melen said: "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."

Police in Middlesbrough say they have made several arrests amid protests and urged the public to avoid the area.

It was reported the protesters broke free of a police guard after 3pm, leading local businesses including a McDonald's to lock their doors as they walked through the city centre.

In remarks initially shared on her organisation's website, Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones said it was time for an honest discussion about the underlying factors.

Rotherham rioters are attacking police and breaking into a htel housing asylum seekers.

Rioters in Rotherham have stormed and set fire to a Holiday Inn where asylum seekers are being housed.

They have also been seen throwing chairs and other objects towards police officers and breaking the building's windows.

Tensions are rising in Bolton, with police keeping rival protestors apart.

Posting on X, John Scheerhaut, crime reporter at the Manchester Evening News, shared footage from the scene, commenting: "And just like that, the protest erupts.

"It seems to have been sparked by young men who arrived on the counter demo side. It prompts chants of ‘There’s only one Tommy Robinson’ and ‘England ‘til I die’ from the other side."

Separate footage showed groups of what appear to be anti-immigration protestors running from mounted police horses, with large groups of Asian men in pursuit.

Riot police have moved in to force protestors out of the Holiday Inn Express Hotel in Rotherham.

Freelance journalist Alex Tiffin posted on X: "Riot police in Rotherham have had to enter the Holiday Express to use their shields to stop rioters from getting inside through broken windows."

Brendan Cox, whose wife was murdered by a right-wing conspiracy theorist in 2016, has taken to X to condemn protestors targeting the Holiday Inn Express hotel in south Yorkshire.

He posted: "The scenes in Rotherham aren’t a protest, they aren’t even a far right riot, they are an ongoing attempt to murder the men, women & children inside by burning them alive.

"The stench of these days will hang around those who incited and justified it for the rest of their lives."

Large numbers of protestors appear to be forcing their way in to the Holiday Inn Express hotel in Rotherham.

It is not immediately clear whether anyone is actually inside the building.

Footage has shown police being pelted with chairs and having fire extinguishers thrown at them.

A helicopter can be heard hovering over the scene, which is threatening to develop into a full-blown riot.

Other pictures apparently taken at the scene appear to show the building in flames.

Shocking footage has shown large groups of protestors throwing multiple objects at retreating police officers and smashing windows at the Holiday Inn Express hotel in Rotherham.

At least three missiles - possibly bricks - have been hurled at police outside a hotel in Rotherham which has been surrounded by thousands of anti-immigration protestors.

The Holiday Inn Express is the focus for an Enough is Enough protest, with police heavily outnumbered.

Footage circulating on social media appears to show three objects - possibly bricks - being thrown, two of which nearly hit police officers.

Anti-immigration supporters have gathered outside a Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham, South Yorkshire.

There is a heavy police presence at the hotel, where some demonstrators are wearing masks and waving flags.

Images from the scene show Riot officers, as well as officers on horseback separating the crowd from the Holiday Inn entrance.

There are also demonstrations underway in Bolton, Sheffield and Aldershot.

A Section 34 dispersal notice has been authorised covering Bolton today (Sunday 4 August 2024) until 10pm.

Under a Section 34 notice, officers have extra powers to deal with anyone taking part in causing anti-social behaviour in the defined areas highlighted in the map.

Officers will be able to instruct and advise anyone who is causing, or very likely to cause harassment, alarm, or distress to leave an area immediately.

Chief Inspector Natasha Evans said: “These powers have been authorised in response to increased protest activity.

"We have been working with organisers of pre-planned protests to help facilitate peaceful and lawful protests, to prevent serious disruption and ensure everyone can go about their lives without fear or risk of harm."

Footage circulating online appears to show a police van being rocked by large numbers of anti-immigration protestors outside the Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham.

South Yorkshire Police have urged people to avoid the area.

There is also a large police presence in Bolton, where another demonstration is underway.

Anti-immigration protestors are gathering outside a hotel in Rotherham used to accommodate asylum seekers.

The pictures show large numbers of people with crosses of St George and Union Jacks outside the Holiday Inn Express.

Video footage appears to show several hundred on either side, will police keeping them separate.

Another demonstration is taking place in nearby Sheffield.

Arriva is suspending buses in Middlesbrough's Linthorpe Road from 1pm today as the city braces itself for potentiual trouble with rival anti-immigration and anti-racism demonstrations scheduled to start at 1pm.

The suspension will remain in place for much of the day.Buses will continue to operate using alternative routes, but this will be under "constant review".

Speaking about Donna Jones's statement, Liberal Democrat MP for Winchester Danny Chambers said he was "deeply concerned", adding: "These extreme views make her totally unsuitable to hold this position of responsibility."

Former chief prosecutor Nazir Afzal said: "I, as a former CEO of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, would have heavily advised against a current PCC, let alone the chair, appearing to justify rioting and criminality that police officers are bravely having to deal with right now. Totally unacceptable."

A Tory crime commissioner has called on the Government to acknowledge the widespread discontent which she said is triggering protests across the UK this week.

Donna Jones, chairwoman of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners and Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, said it was time for an honest discussion about the underlying factors.

In a statement issued yesterday, she said: "The government must acknowledge what is causing this civil unrest in order to prevent it. Arresting people, or creating violent disorder units, is treating the symptom and not the cause.

"The questions these people want answering; what is the government’s solution to mass uncontrolled immigration? How are the new Labour government going to uphold and build on British values? This is the biggest challenge facing Sir Kier Starmer’s government, and its bitten quickly.

"As a national police leader, and a Police and Crime Commissioner, someone who has spent almost two decades representing the public, this is the clear message I will put to the Prime Minister and Home Secretary this week."

The statement, shared on the Conservative Post website, was also initially published on the Hampshire PCC website, but now appears to have been deleted.

Sir Keir Starmer is facing mounting criticism this morning after it emerged he is planning to leave for his first holiday as Prime Minister despite the rioting crisis.

The revelations of the Prime Minister’s plan for a summer break emerged last night, with Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner set to take the helm of Government in his place.

However the timing of the break echoes concerns voiced when he pledged during the election campaign to try and take Friday evenings off for family time.

This morning, Tory leadership contender Robert Jenrick condemned the PM’s choice as “completely wrong”.

A line of police is keeping rival protestors apart in Lancaster in the latest in a series of nationwide demonstrations.

A clip shared on X shows the two groups shouting at one another outside the town hall, with large numbers of officers in attendance.

Racist thugs have been caught on camera in Hull hurling abuse and dragging an Asian man out of his car before vandalising it.

The shocking footage has emerged after a day of nationwide violence as anti-immigration protestors ran amok, with more than 90 people arrested so far.

Demonstrations were staged in towns and cities across the UK yesterday, in response to Monday's fatal stabbing of three children in Southport.

Bus company Stagecoach Cumbria has warned of possible disruption ahead of an anti-immigration protest in Lancaster this morning.

With participants gathering at Lancaster town hall, the company, posting on X, said: "Due to the Protest in Lancaster today.

"Some services may be delayed / cancelled or diverted at short notice. We will keep you informed as the day progresses. Apologies for any inconvenience this may cause."

With an anti-immigration demonstration scheduled for the city today, Andy McDonald, Labour MP for Middlesbrough and Thornaby, has issued a warning to anyone planning to break the law.

Mr McDonald, posting on X, said: "The wanton violence we have seen in Hartlepool and Sunderland is utterly disgusting. I am working with Cleveland Police.

Anyone planning attacks on our communities should know criminal thuggery will be met with the full force of the law.

"You are advised to stay at home."

Clare Moody, Police and Crime Commissioner for Avon and Somerset, has thanked police to quelling public disorder in Bristol last night.

In a statement issued today, she said: "Sadly, a small but violent group sought to bring unacceptable disorder and violence to the streets of Bristol last night.

"This behaviour is not protest. It is not an expression of legitimate concern. It is criminal."

Those involved did not represent Bristol or the wider Avon and Somerset area, Ms Moody emphasised.

She added: "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."

Culture minister Lisa Nandy, who is Labour MP for Wigan, has thanked police after violence through the UK - including Manchester.

Posting on X, she said: "I cannot thank our local police enough for everything they’re doing to keep people safe.

"They were among the first on the scene when the horrendous incident unfolded in Southport.

"They run into danger to keep us safe, and those who attack them should be ashamed."

In Belfast, supermarket manager Bashir's business was extensively damaged by fire.

He said the Islamic community was being targeted, adding: "People attacked this place, racism against Islam and Muslims, especially the Muslim community.

"All of that happened and the police did nothing, I am telling you the truth.

"What kind of police are letting the people burn everything down?"

The violence on Saturday night followed unrest earlier in the day after businesses were attacked when an anti-immigration protest moved through the city.

Police mounted a significant security operation during a lengthy confrontation between anti-Islamic protesters and those taking part in an anti-racist rally at Belfast City Hall during which fireworks and other missiles were thrown.

People taking part in the anti-Islam demonstration then travelled towards the university area of the city where there were clashes with residents of the Lower Ormeau area.

A business was attacked in the Botanic area of the city and windows were smashed at a hotel.

There is "no need" to bring in the Army to deal with unrest in parts of England, a Home Office minister has said.

Asked whether the Government would draft in the military to help respond, policing minister Dame Diana Johnson told BBC News: "There is no need to bring in the Army and there has been no discussion about that.

"As I say, the police have made it very clear that they have all the resources they need at the moment... they have the powers that they need."

Technology Secretary Peter Kyle has been having discussions with social media companies about misinformation spread online, Dame Diana said.

"Obviously we need to do more because you're absolutely right there has been that spread of misinformation which has caused problems this week," she added.

The Government has been "reassured" that police have the resources they need to deal with disorder in parts of the UK, a Home Office minister has said.

Asked whether enough was being done to tackle the unrest, Dame Diana Johnson told BBC News she wanted to send "a very clear message" that those involved would be brought to justice.

It comes as the Police Federation voiced concerns that officers may not be able to attend other incidents as they scramble to respond to the widespread disorder.

"We have been reassured that the police have the resources that they need to be able to deal with what's happening at the moment," Dame Diana said.

"They have long-standing plans in place for mutual aid if they need to put extra police officers into certain parts of the country. We are certainly not hearing that things like 999 calls are not being answered."

The policing minister insisted there would be "penalties and consequences" for criminal disorder and it would "not be tolerated."

Shocking pictures have shown the aftermath of an arson attack on a cafe in Belfast which resulted in it being completely gutted by flames.

The attack came after anti-immigation protesters faced off against counter-demonstrators in the city, with police police forming a large cordon around the Islamic Centre in University Street.

Justice Minister Naomi Long said: “Those trashing our city and attacking businesses should be ashamed. They should also face the full legal consequences of their actions.

“Unlike those working to build businesses and a better future, these hatemongers offer nothing but division and destruction.”

An arson attack which gutted a library in Liverpool has been condemned by Liverpool City Council leader Liam Robinson.

Spellow Hub, a facililty opened last year as a means of helping unemployed people get back into work, was torched last night.

Describing the news as "Heartbreaking and despicable", Mr Robinson added: "We will not be divided by a small minority.”

A "strong and visible police presence" remained in Hull City Centre after widespread disorder.

Vehicles and local businesses were targeted, with Shoezone set on fire, in addition to fires started in wheelie bins and a number of tyres set alight, in and around the Ferensway, Jameson Street, Spring Bank and Grey Street areas.

Assistant Chief Constable Mike Walker said: “A total of 20 people have been arrested for various public order offences throughout the afternoon and evening, and to be clear, this enforcement action is going to continue as we will not tolerate mindless violence and disorder in our city.

“The right to lawful protest is a part of democracy, which my officers upheld, however we will not accept the senseless vandalism, antisocial behaviour and sheer violence that has been brought to our streets."

Stoke witnessed violent scenes, with one man needing hospital treatment after being hit by an object thrown at him in Town Road, Hanley. Initial reports suggesting the man had been stabbed proved to be inaccurate.

A total of ten people were arrested yesterday. Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Ellison said: “Officers worked proactively and cohesively today to protect the public and tackle those intent on disorder.

“Violent disorder of any form is completely unacceptable and those who are responsible will be met with the full force of the law.

“As we’ve seen today, it’s also vital that we work together to act against misinformation online. It can spread rapidly and paint a false picture, which can be incredibly damaging. Please consider what source the information has come from and whether it has been confirmed by accredited organisations.

“The safety of the public is our number one priority. We can assure communities in Staffordshire that we will continue to monitor intelligence and deploy specialist teams proactively to keep people safe and prevent crime.”

A Section 60 order in place across Liverpool will remain in force until 8.40pm on Sunday, meaning officers have extra powers to stop and search people suspected of carrying weapons or planning criminal acts.

Assistant Chief Constable Alex Goss said: “The people who have brought such aggression and destruction into the heart of our communities do not represent the people of Merseyside, and they certainly do not honour the memory of those three young girls whose lives were taken so tragically on Monday.

“They have instead attacked and in many cases caused serious injury to police officers who come to work every day to protect the public. They have brought fear into residential streets, targeted local businesses providing a vital service to our communities, and damaged personal property and infrastructure in the city.

“This is disgraceful and people who live, work and visit Merseyside do not want it to continue, and we will not tolerate it. A number of those involved this evening were youths and we are urging parents and guardians to make sure they know where their children are, to protect them and others from harm.

“If you have any information about this incident or if you know of anyone involved, I would urge you to contact us so we can bring those responsible to justice.”

The widespread disorder witnessed across the nation yesterday relates to protests organised in the wake of Monday's fatal stabbing of three children at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport.

False rumours spread on the internet suggested the perpetrator was a Syrian refugee, and the following day hunderds clashed with police in the town as they tried to attack its mosque.

More disorder was witnessed in the days to come, culminating in riots and violence across the UK in cities including Manchester, Liverpool, Hull and Stoke.

Tiffay Lynch of the National Police Federartion also warned that efforts to deal with the violence that has erupted across towns and cities in recent days in the wake of a stabbing rampage at a dance class that left three girls dead and several wounded means that other crimes may not be investigated fully.

In just one incident on Saturday, Merseyside Police said about 300 people were involved in violent disorder in Liverpool, which saw a community facility being set on fire. The Spellow Lane Library Hub, which was opened last year to provide support for one of the most deprived communities in the country, suffered severe damage to the ground floor.

Police said rioters tried to prevent firefighters from accessing the fire, throwing a missile at the fire engine and breaking the rear window of the cab.

Ms Lynch said: “We’re seeing officers that are being pulled from day-to-day policing.

“But while that’s happening, the communities that are out there that are having incidents against them - victims of crime - unfortunately, their crimes are not being investigated.”

Speaking about today, Tiffany Lynch from the Police Federation of England and Wales added: "We have our intelligence officers out there in the community.

"What we also have is disinformation across social media, which obviously needs to be addressed quickly."

On violence against police, and referring to the shocking murders in Southport she said: "We saw at the very start of this week... the tragic horrific killing of three young children and the injured children... a day of reflection quickly turned into horrific violence, and towards police officers that are there to protect everybody.

"We will continue keeping up this policing for as long as it takes. We need it to stop, and we need it to stop immediately.

"We will mobilise immediately. We are 24/7, 365 days a year.

"We need the public to get behind the police, to get behind the call for this to stop."

The Police Federation's Tiffany Lynch continued: "We've had riots and clashes of this nature, but they have been pocketed in particular areas of the country. We're now seeing it flooding across major cities and towns.

"We're seeing officers that are being pulled from day-to-day policing to... go out there and essentially protect our communities.

"But while that's happening, the communities that are out there that are having incidents against them - victims of crime - unfortunately, their crimes are not being investigated.

"We're not going to be able to attend all of the incidents that are coming in on the 999s because we're having to direct the priorities of what's happening on the streets."

Tiffany Lynch, Deputy National Chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales condemned the recent rioting and violence against police.

She told BBC Breakfast after unrest in a number of cities in England and Northern Ireland: "It is an abhorrent, senseless act of violence against our police officers, towards our public buildings who are there to serve the community.

"These acts are those of a small minority and it doesn't represent the community of Great Britain. It is absolutely abhorrent.”

More anti-immigration protests are planned for Sunday, with police braced for fresh violence after shocking scenes yesterday in cities and towns across the UK which resulted in at least 90 arrests, several police officers being injured, and widespread looting.

Demonstrations are scheduled in Bolton, Lancaster, Middlesbrough, Weymouth and Rotherham.

Yesterday saw 20 arrests by Humberside Police, 10 in Stoke, 20 in Lancashire and 14 in Bristol. Merseyside Police arrested 23 people, with riot officers deployed in County Road, where marauding youths set fire to bins and blocked the street in the early hours.

Chief Constable BJ Harrington, who speaks on public order for the National Police Chiefs' Council, said: "We know people will try and do this again and policing has been and will continue to be ready. There are 130 extra units in place across the country, meaning almost 4,000 extra public order-trained officers to deploy.

We'll be bringing you live updates as Britain prepares for more carnage after a day of shocking violence following widespread protests by anti-immigration protestors and counter-demonstrators.