Six arrests made during asylum hotel protests

Police have issued a dispersal order in the area around the hotel

Six people have been arrested and a dispersal order issued during protests and counter-protests outside a hotel used to house asylum seekers.

Greater Manchester Police said the order, which covers the area around the hotel on Wilmslow Road, Fallowfield, would remain in place until midnight.

The force said two people had been arrested on suspicion of racially aggravated public order offences, and one person each was arrested on suspicion of theft of police equipment, assault and indecent exposure.

A further person was arrested from inside the hotel on suspicion of outraging public indecency during the protests.

All six people remain in custody for questioning.

The force said there would be an increased police presence in the area, with the dispersal order giving officers the power to advise anyone who is causing - or is likely to cause - harassment, alarm or distress to leave the area.

Ch Insp Trevor Eaton said: "We will always respect the right to peacefully protest, while making sure to take the appropriate action to ensure that those who live, work, or visit here can feel safe to go about their daily business."