Eleven protesters arrested in Manchester city centre

The demonstrations, including a Britain First march and counter-protests, took place across central Manchester and prompted a major policing operation..

Greater Manchester Police confirmed that nine of those arrested remain in custody.

Of the 11 arrests, two men were held on suspicion of breaching the peace, two for assaulting emergency workers, and four for public order offences.

One of those arrested on public order grounds was later de-arrested and served with a summons.

Another man, detained under the Crime and Disorder Act, was also de-arrested and issued a dispersal notice.

Other arrests included one man for assault and another for breaching a dispersal notice.

A section 34 dispersal order remained in place until 8pm tonight, allowing officers to direct people to leave the area.

Assistant Chief Constable Rick Jackson, gold commander for the operation, said:

“Manchester was expected to be extremely busy today, with multiple planned protests in the city centre as well as several football matches.

“We put extra officers on duty to support people’s right to protest peacefully while reducing the impact on the wider public.

“Thanks to the efforts of our officers on the ground and the planning done with our partners, hundreds of people from a range of groups were able to come together safely, with no significant issues reported.

“Greater Manchester is a place where people can confidently and lawfully express their views, while ensuring that residents, workers, and visitors can go about their day feeling safe.”

The force confirmed that the policing operation involved additional resources, pre-prepared plans, and coordination with partner agencies to manage the day’s events.

The protests were part of a wider day of events that included several football matches.