Police 'ready' for potential protest this weekend

More than 200 police officers will be on standby

A senior police officer has announced plans for a large policing operation ahead of any potential protests this weekend.

Spt Lisa Simpson said there would be more than 200 officers on standby in Yeovil, Somerset, to provide reassurance, facilitate any peaceful protest and "deal robustly" with any disorder on Saturday.

Supt Simpson said she knew there was concern in the town about posts on social media and wanted people "to feel safe and be free to go about their lives without fear".

She added officers had "no firm evidence" of a planned demonstration, but remained "committed to keeping people updated".

The operation will involve mostly local officers, but back-up units will be brought in from neighbouring police forces and further afield, Avon and Somerset Police said.

Mounted, dog and drone units will be in the area to join officers if needed, the force added.

Spt Simpson said: “Given the scenes we have all witnessed take place in towns and cities across the country in recent days, we feel it is proportionate to stand up this operation.

“Those who live and work in Yeovil, or who are planning on visiting this weekend, should not be alarmed by the large number of police - they are there to keep you safe."

She added that police has been in regular contact with community and faith leaders, as well as local businesses, to keep them informed and offer advice.

Spt Simpson said boarding up businesses or avoiding the town centre was not something police would ever advise on, but the force would keep the public updated so people could make "their own informed decisions".

She added: “It’s by working closely with our communities that we will ensure those who threaten to cause unrest will not succeed.”

Ms Turner said she was prepared for any kind of protest

Julie Turner, who manages the Emporium on Princes Street in Yeovil, said she was prepared for any potential protests, but would trade as normal.

"Our main priority is our customers and our staff, if anything kicks off - shutters down and we're all safe inside.

"It's good to be prepared."

Nick Evans from Barolo Lounge, based on the corner of King George Street and High Street, said Saturday would be "business as usual" and he thought the rumours of the protest were "a storm in a teacup".