07/03/2011 02:52 PM
Security fencing has been used to keep apart members of the English Defence League (EDL) and Unite Against Fascism (UAF) as the two groups staged rival protests in Rochdale, Greater Manchester.
About 500 EDL members protested at the town's war memorial and around 150 people from UAF were present, with both groups stood approximately 100ft apart.
Security fencing was used by police to separate the two organisations.
There was a high profile presence from Greater Manchester Police (GMP), with dog units and officers in riot gear present.
The protests lasted for about two and a half hours. There were a number of arrests but the day never looked like becoming violent.
Councillor Colin Lambert, leader of Rochdale Council, praised the efforts of the police.
"The police operation has been a complete success, the demonstrations have taken place with a minimum of disruption to our town. Rochdale's diverse communities are to be commended for their cooperation, tolerance and restraint through what has been a challenging time."
Security fencing was also used when the EDL and counter demonstrators protested in Preston last November.
About 500 EDL members protested at the town's war memorial and around 150 people from UAF were present, with both groups stood approximately 100ft apart.
Security fencing was used by police to separate the two organisations.
There was a high profile presence from Greater Manchester Police (GMP), with dog units and officers in riot gear present.
The protests lasted for about two and a half hours. There were a number of arrests but the day never looked like becoming violent.
Councillor Colin Lambert, leader of Rochdale Council, praised the efforts of the police.
"The police operation has been a complete success, the demonstrations have taken place with a minimum of disruption to our town. Rochdale's diverse communities are to be commended for their cooperation, tolerance and restraint through what has been a challenging time."
Security fencing was also used when the EDL and counter demonstrators protested in Preston last November.
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