Police praise community of Bristol

Police have praised the community of Bristol after an eventful day of marches on Saturday passed off calmly.

Assistant Chief Constable Anthony Bangham said: "This has been a challenging day and I would like to thank the community for their patience and support. I have always maintained that the central shopping and tourist destinations should remain unaffected and I am pleased that the city centre has remained trouble-free.

"Despite the demands placed on our officers we have also been able to support Bristol Pride which I know is an important and well supported event in the city's calendar.

"Finally, I would like to thank all the officers and staff who have taken part in today's operation. Some have come from as far away as Yorkshire to help keep our city running smoothly. We have also had excellent support from the other agencies working alongside us."

Police say English Defence League and We Are Bristol demonstrations took place around Queen Square and Castle Park. The majority of people taking part in the march were well behaved, in good spirits and caused no problems to the local community.

There was a large police presence in the area to ensure peaceful events and we have responded quickly to a small number of minor incidents. There have been only 16 arrests for offences including going equipped to cause damage, assaulting a police officer and failing to leave an area when directed to do so by a police officer.

Police estimate that around 300 EDL supporters and 500 We Are Bristol supporters took part in their respective marches.

As well as the marches Bristol Pride is also taking place on College Green. With 700 people attending it is well supported and everyone attending is in good spirits.