04/04/2011 01:27 PM
Metal barriers were used to separate the English Defence League and counter protestors when the groups staged demonstrations in Blackburn town centre this weekend (Saturday April 2nd).
An estimated 2,000 EDL supporters gathered for a march and rally in the town centre, while a separate demonstration was held by around 500 Unite Against Fascism (UAF) supporters.
Police used steel barriers to keep the two sides apart.
Lancashire Constabulary said the day passed off "relatively peacefully", with some scuffles among EDL supporters and a small group of EDL supporters breaking away from the main demonstration area. 12 arrests were made.
Bob Eastwood, divisional commander for eastern division at Lancashire Constabulary, said: "The events have passed mostly without incident and I would like to thank the local community for their help and tolerance during the events and the lead up to them.
"The aim of the policing operation was to allow for peaceful protests which we have demonstrated is possible through careful planning and successful communication at all levels."
Last month, security fencing was used to keep members from the EDL and UAF apart when demonstrations took place in Rochdale, Greater Manchester.
An estimated 2,000 EDL supporters gathered for a march and rally in the town centre, while a separate demonstration was held by around 500 Unite Against Fascism (UAF) supporters.
Police used steel barriers to keep the two sides apart.
Lancashire Constabulary said the day passed off "relatively peacefully", with some scuffles among EDL supporters and a small group of EDL supporters breaking away from the main demonstration area. 12 arrests were made.
Bob Eastwood, divisional commander for eastern division at Lancashire Constabulary, said: "The events have passed mostly without incident and I would like to thank the local community for their help and tolerance during the events and the lead up to them.
"The aim of the policing operation was to allow for peaceful protests which we have demonstrated is possible through careful planning and successful communication at all levels."
Last month, security fencing was used to keep members from the EDL and UAF apart when demonstrations took place in Rochdale, Greater Manchester.
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