Hundreds gather as immigration protest takes place

About 300 people were present at the height of the protest

More than 300 people gathered in Bournemouth earlier as a planned immigration protest took place.

The march, organised by Bournemouth Patriots, with a "stop the boats" message, followed a pre-agreed route along Meyrick Road to a designated location near the Lansdowne.

Counter protesters and supporters of Stand up to Racism were also present, with many chanting "refugees are welcome here".

Dorset Police said it respected people's right to peaceful protest, but were "imposing conditions for safety" and to "minimise disruption".

BBC reporter Steve Humphrey said about 300 people gathered at the height of the protest, with equal numbers from both sides.

He said some were chanting, while waving Union Jack and England flags.

It was the latest in a series of protests in the town, with police warning demonstrators would be committing an offence if they failed to follow official instructions.

The Bournemouth Patriots turned down an invitation to be interviewed by the BBC and said the corporation was not welcome at the event.