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A controversial English Defence League (EDL) demonstration and a major opposition rally were praised for passing peacefully today.
Up to 300 far right campaigners marched through Bristol in protest at what it says is the islamification of the city.
Two local EDL supporters had previously received death threats in the run up to today’s potentially violent public protest.
But a determined police drive to ensure the rival rallies passed off peacefully appears to have been successful.
Avon and Somerset Police drafted in extra officers from as far afield as Yorkshire to swell the ranks of the riot control force to 1,000.
Earlier, demonstrators walked through rain swept streets to Queen Square where EDL leaders made speeches to their supporters.
At the same time up to 500 anti-EDL protesters with the We Are Bristol campaign marched in the city in an counter-demonstration.
Simultaneously hundreds more people were marching as part of this year’s Bristol Pride celebrations.
A senior police chief praised the community in Bristol today for the calm way in which the march passed off.
But a large police presence will remain in Bristol tonight to ensure the city’s Saturday evening routine passes normally.
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.”
A police spokesman added: “This afternoon the 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.
“Police estimate that around 300 EDL supporters and 500 We Are Bristol supporters took part in their respective marches.”
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