'Significant' police operation planned for Yeovil

Police have been given additional powers to combat potential disorder

Police in Yeovil have been given additional powers until Sunday morning including enhanced stop and search permissions and a dispersal zone.

Avon and Somerset Police said a "significant" operation will be underway in the town on Saturday to respond to any disorder and facilitate peaceful protest.

The enhanced powers, which will allow officers to move people out of the area, will run between 16.00 BST in Saturday and 07.00 BST on Sunday.

More than 200 officers will be on standby, including those from other forces and mounted, dog and drone units.

A dispersal zone, marked by the area in blue, will be in operation from Saturday afternoon until Sunday morning

There has been a series of violent protests across England since the fatal stabbings of three young girls at a dance class in the seaside town of Southport on 29 July.

Earlier this week there were rallies across the country organised by anti-racism campaigners.

Supt Lisa Simpson, from Avon and Somerset Police, said neighbourhood officers have been speaking to business owners and community leaders to provide reassurance and take action to help mitigate their concerns.

“That engagement work is continuing today and we’d urge anyone who is worried to make themselves known to us because we are here for everyone living, working or visiting Yeovil," she said, adding that all officers will be working extended shifts.

"Such a decision is not made lightly because we know the impact it has on them as individuals and their families," added Supt Simpson.

“But right now we recognise our communities need us to continue to honour the daily commitment we make to serve and protect them.

"Ultimately, we are at our strongest when we are united.”