Anti-racism protesters gather in city centre demo

Demonstrators held placards and loud chanting rang out across the city centre

Anti-racism protesters have demonstrated in a city centre following violent disturbances across the country.

Up to 400 people, carrying banners, flags and placards, were estimated to have gathered at the peak of the peaceful protest along Gentleman's Walk in Norwich.

During the event, which started at 12:00 BST, police officers kept protesters apart from a handful of anti-immigration demonstrators.

Hundreds of people have been arrested in connection with riots and anti-immigration protests across the UK following the fatal stabbings of three girls in Southport, Merseyside on 29 July.

Up to 400 anti-racism protesters were estimated to have gathered along Gentleman's Walk in Norwich

The demonstration - organised as part of a national day of protest by Norwich Stand Up to Racism and Protest with Pride - took place along the busy shopping street and dispersed at about 15:00.

Norwich South MP Clive Lewis addressed the crowd, three days after attending another rally near a hotel housing asylum seekers on the outskirts of Norwich.

Protesters started gathering from midday in the city centre

Protester Jemma Luck said she was heartened that so many people had gathered in Norwich

Demonstrator Jemma Luck, 23, said although Norwich had not experienced unrest like other places, it was still important to turn out and protest.

“We’re here together – the people of Norwich all in solidarity, all out of a place of love and compassion to stand up for human rights,” she said.

“It warms my heart that this is happening in Norwich.”

Ruby Rae was among those who turned out to demonstrate

Another protester Ruby Rae, 24, said it had been a "peaceful few hours".

"When I look back at the amount of people who have turned up today, it is such a safe feeling... it comforts me that Norwich is working together to do something really beneficial," she said.

Norfolk Police was unavailable for comment.