Exeter protest groups come together 'peacefully'

About 800 of the 1,000 protestors were estimated to be part of the Exeter is for Everyone group

About 1,000 people turned out for a planned protest and counter-protest in Exeter on Saturday.

The two groups, Exeter is for Everyone and British Unity Walk marched through the city centre from about 12:30 GMT.

Devon and Cornwall Police had a number of officers deployed, and had earlier issued Section 60AA order, giving officers additional powers to require the removal of face coverings or anything concealing someone's identity.

The force said it had been engaged with the organisers of both marches, and officers were deployed throughout the city.

British Unity Walk and Exeter is for Everyone came together for a time in Exeter city centre

Regarding the Section 60AA order, the police said: "These powers may be used by officers involved in today's protests as part of our overall aim of facilitating peaceful protest whilst preventing crime and disorder and balancing the rights of others."

The two groups took different routes to march around Exeter city centre, with Exeter is for Everyone taking a short route from Bedford Square and the British Unity Walk setting off from Dix's Field on a longer course.

BBC Spotlight reporter Scott Bingham said the two groups came together at Bedford Square with "a fair amount of shouting".

He said: "About 800 people turned out for Exeter is for Everyone in response to the anti-immigration British Unity Walk, which had about 150 people."

Police said the protests were peaceful overall and did not confirm if any arrests were made.