Three people were arrested in Newcastle as hundreds took part in a demonstration on Sunday, despite lockdown restrictions

The action was to highlight the issue of violence against women, and opposing a bill being debated in Parliament which would give police more powers to curb public protests.

Demonstrators carried signs criticising the government and the police.

The march began in the city centre, before moving to the civic centre and Exhibition Park.

It was largely peaceful but two men were issued with a summons under coronavirus legislation while a woman was arrested and issued with a warning for possession of cannabis.

A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: "Ensuring the safety of the public is our utmost priority and [the] protests in Newcastle passed without incident.

"Under the current Covid legislation, protests are not exempt from the restrictions due the risk that large gatherings pose to public safety.

"There was an increased police presence in the city to deliver a proportionate policing response to any activity taking place."

Bringing you the latest news from across the North East from Monday 22 March to Friday 26 March 2021

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The Queen has personally thanked four volunteers from the North East for their efforts in helping others throughout the pandemic.

In a video call with the Duchess of Cornwall and Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) chief executive, Catherine Johnstone, the Queen spoke with the volunteers from RVS and NHS Volunteer Responders who have helped vulnerable people in their communities.

Image source, Buckingham Palace

Sue Cadwallader has been helping with the Northumberland Good Neighbours Service and Tracy Clarke has been delivering books to people unable to visit Gateshead libraries.

Simon Holmes, from Stockton-on-Tees, and Anderson Akponeware, from Middlesbrough, were also on the call. They are both giving their time as NHS volunteers making ‘Check in and Chat’ calls with people in need of conversation.

Image source, Buckingham Palace

Praising their work, the Queen said: "I think it’s wonderful work. Thank you to everybody - and all the others too who have been volunteering. It has been a great help."