Huge crowds congregated in Bournemouth for rival protests
Huge crowds congregated in Bournemouth for rival protests (Picture: Getty Images)

Around 700 protesters from rival far-right and anti-racism groups descended on Bournemouth today.

Approximately 200 anti-immigration campaigners were met by 500 people from a number of organisations, including Stand Up To Racism, at around 10.30am.

Huge crowds congregated in the centre of the Dorset seaside town, while at least 100 riot officers and six vans were out in force to prevent any clashes.

A ‘no go’ zone was set up by rows of police officers between the town hall and Upper Gardens.

Placards saying ‘stop the boats’ and ‘British lives matter’ were held up by the Enough Is Enough march, with many waving Union Jack and England flags.

They also chanted ‘save our kids’ and ‘we want our country back’, as well as playing Rule Britannia and Jerusalem on a loud speaker.

Meanwhile, opposing groups had signs which read ‘refugees are welcome here’ and ‘no to racism’, while singing ‘say it loud, say it clear, refugees are welcome here’.

BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND - AUGUST 18: An anti-immigration protester holds up a sign reading, 'Enough is Enough, Stop The Boats ' during far-right and counter protests in Bournemouth, on August 18, 2024 in Bournemouth, England. Far right and Stand Up To Racism groups protest in Bournemouth town centre. Following a series of violent clashes over previous weeks, resulting in arrests and prison sentences handed to some of those involved, protests by anti-migrant groups appear to be lessening in frequency. (Photo by Finnbarr Webster/Getty Images)
Enough Is Enough protesters held up ‘stop the boats’ signs (Picture: Getty Images)
Anti-racism protesters outnumbered the far-right groups
Anti-racism protesters outnumbered the far-right groups (Picture: Getty Images)

They also shouted ‘no to Nazi scum’ and ‘where’s your Tommy gone’, in reference to Tommy Robinson.

It comes after more than 1,000 arrests have been made with 400 charged following widespread violent riots across the country in the wake of the Southport stabbings.

An array of far-right rioters have already been handed hefty prison sentences for their shocking crimes, including boys aged 12, 13 and 15.

Assistant chief constable for Dorset Police, Mark Callaghan, had warned beforehand: ‘While we will be there to enable lawful protest, we will not tolerate any hate, violence or disorder in our communities.

‘Offenders can expect to be arrested, charged and brought before the courts.’

Riot police were at the scene to prevent violence
Riot police were at the scene to prevent violence (Picture: Getty Images)
There has been no reported disorder at the protests
There has been no reported disorder at the protests (Picture: Getty Images)

Police had anticipated it would be ‘two peaceful static protests’ but had put in place a dispersal order and enacted extra stop and search powers under Section 60 and 60AA.

The anti-immigration protest had all but fizzled out without any disorder by around 2pm.

Remaining far-right protesters were waved off with taunts from the rival groups saying: ‘There are many more of us than you.’