There are no protests planned in Telford

A list has been circulated for planned protests that are taking place this evening, Wednesday, 7th August, in locations around the UK.

In areas like Rotherham and Hull, these protests developed into rioting and looting, the likes of which have not been seen since 2011.

Some shop owners in the area had been concerned that Telford is on a list, but this is not the case.

The first court appearances of those involved in the rioting and looting have taken place, with many being remanded in custody. Company director Joe Mackenzie from Middlesborough, who, according to Court reports in the Telegraph, dabbed his eyes as he was told he was being kept in prison to await his trial.

West Mercia Police have stated that over the past week we have seen violent disorder in England and Northern Ireland and while we haven’t experienced any disorder in Herefordshire, Shropshire or Worcestershire understand local communities will be worried.

We are linked in with the national planning around any response to disorder; however, our focus is very much on our strong community policing.

Chief Superintendent Edd Williams said: “The public can and should be confident that we are working hard to keep our communities safe.

“We do not underestimate the fear and worry the violence in other parts of the country has caused and know these groups do not speak for our communities.  

“It is our priority to make sure everyone feels safe and safer neighbourhood officers have been visiting and speaking with their local communities to offer reassurance and we continue to work closely with our partner agencies.

“We respect the democratic right to peaceful protest but will not tolerate violence and disorder and have robust plans in place to respond. We will take swift and decisive action against those who come into our cities and towns to commit violent disorder.

“We are proud of the strong community cohesion and will stand together with our communities against those who look to disrupt this.”