Police force warns it will not tolerate hate

Anti-immigration protests have been held across the south of England

A police force has warned it will not tolerate hate, violence or disorder, following clashes at recent protests.

Anti-immigration demonstrations took place in Weymouth and Bournemouth earlier in August, resulting in several arrests.

They came after a week of disturbances in parts of England and Northern Ireland, following the fatal stabbing of three girls in Southport - with unrest fuelled by misinformation posted online.

Dorset Police said offenders at any further protests should expect to be arrested.

Additional temporary powers will allow officers in Bournemouth to stop and search people for weapons and move on groups or individuals who are causing – or who are likely to cause – harassment, alarm or distress to others.

They will also be able to ask people to remove face coverings.

Speaking to BBC Radio Solent, Assistant Chief Constable Mark Callaghan said: "We have seen the fear of hatred and race incidents has certainly increased - and people going about their normal day to day have felt that fear."

In a statement from Dorset Police, he said resources would be brought in from across the region to support policing during any demonstrations.

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council has said it would be installing additional CCTV cameras in key areas, and providing more community safety patrols.

Millie Earl, leader of the authority, said: "We know, from what we have seen nationally, that some of our communities may be worried and anxious."

Police officers attended previous demonstrations in Weymouth

About 400 anti-immigration protesters gathered on Weymouth Esplanade on 4 August, along with about 200 counter protesters from Stand Up to Racism.

A number of people were arrested for offences such as violent disorder and assaulting emergency workers.

On 7 August, more than 150 people also gathered outside the Roundhouse Hotel in Bournemouth, which had been used to house asylum seekers.