Video: The march passed relatively peacefully but caused disruption to businesses
Members of the English Defence League have staged a controversial demonstration march through Nottingham city centre.
The far-right group gathered at Castle Wharf before passing Nottingham Castle, heading along Maid Marian Way, Upper Parliament Street, Queen Street and stopping at the Brian Clough statue.
Nottingham Beach was closed during the protest as the city council said it feared visitors could be at risk if trouble broke out.
There were some traffic delays as the group of around 150 people crossed major roads in the city centre.
A number of counter-protesters, some wearing masks, gathered at Nottingham Castle as the parade passed but police kept the two groups apart.
Five people were arrested, some for refusing to adhere to a ban on wearing face coverings in connection with the demonstrations.
Around 300 opponents of the group met them at the Brian Clough statue, but both groups were again kept a distance apart by police.
Chief Inspector Andy Hall of Notts Police said: “Protecting the public has always been our absolute priority and while these events do bring an element of localised disruption, our officers have done all they can to help minimise that and allow people to continue to go about their everyday lives.
“While not everyone will agree with the sentiment behind the demonstration, Nottinghamshire Police does have an obligation to facilitate the right to a peaceful protest and we would also like to thank the majority of demonstrators on both sides who did behave responsibly.”
The force received support from 21 other police forces – including specialist officers, police dogs and mounted officers.
The council had called on Notts Police to ban the march but senior officers said the event did not meet the legal requirements to apply for a ban from the Home Secretary.
In 2009 the group staged a similar event in the city, leading to violent clashes between members, police and counter demonstrators and several arrests.
Notts Police faced a huge challenge on a day when Nottingham Forest also hosted their first game of the new season and thousands of people attended the Riverside Festival at the Victoria Embankment.
