Protest and counter protest in city centre

The rival groups came close at one point but police kept them apart

Hundreds of people in Newcastle have taken part in a protest against illegal immigration, while a counter anti-racism protest also took place.

UKIP supporters protested on the Quayside because of what they described as a lack of government action on illegal immigration, before walking into the city centre.

However, anti-racism campaigners from Stand Up to Racism accused the protesters of trying to spread fear and hatred and held a counter rally at Monument.

There was a heavy police presence to keep them apart and three arrests were made over breach of the peace. Northumbria Police said the right to lawful protest was a key part of a democracy and the protests had mainly passed without incident.

Stand Up to Racism campaigners gathered at Monument

A force spokesperson said: "The safety of the public is our utmost priority.

"When we became aware of protest activity planned in Newcastle today, we ensured we had an increased presence in the city to deliver a proportionate policing response."

UKIP supporters walked into the city centre from the Quayside

They added: "While the activity mainly passed without incident, three people in their 20s, two women and a man, were arrested.

"They all currently remain in police custody."