Police vow 'robust stance' as rival protests gather

The crowd began to disperse after about an hour

Crowds of opposing protesters have gathered in Portsmouth city centre as demonstrations and unrest continue across the UK in the wake of the Southport attacks.

Hundreds of anti-immigration protesters waving English and Union flags were met by Stand Up to Racism campaigners on the steps of the Guildhall.

About 300 men and women, and some families, gathered for the short protest at 10:00 BST.

Some carried banners saying "Save our children". The crowd started to disperse after about an hour.

The peaceful gathering was among several held around England in the wake of the killings at a children's dance workshop in Southport on Monday.

Hampshire Constabulary said it was constantly reviewing its patrol plans to reassure residents and deal with any incidents of disorder.

Hundreds gathered for the short demonstration on Saturday morning

Assistant Chief Constable Paul Bartolomeo said: "Our role is to protect people's lawful right to protest, while also preventing serious disorder and disruption to the local community.

"It is totally unacceptable to turn that lawful right into criminal acts and this will not be tolerated in Hampshire and Isle of Wight.

"As we have shown this week, we will take action against those who commit criminal offences, using all investigative tactics available to us.

"Everyone has the right to free speech and peaceful protest.

"However, officers will take a robust stance against those who choose to act outside of the law."

On Wednesday, a peaceful demonstration descended into disorder at a hotel housing asylum seekers in Aldershot.

Police said a minority of the 200-strong crowd at the hotel "got involved in criminal activity, throwing objects and subjecting people to racial abuse".

Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones said: "We all need to work together to stop this mindless criminal behaviour committed by a small number of people, whilst understanding the views of those attending rallies who feel strongly but don’t cause disorder."