Two protests were planned for the city centre in Carlisle yesterday (Saturday, September 13) – one was by an anti-immigration group and the counter demonstration was planned by those who were for it – and Cumbria police released the plans how they planned to keep order on the day on Friday (September 12).

The force said its officers had been planning an operation ahead of the demos, planned by Cumbria Against Racism and Carlisle Action Group/Enough is Enough, to help minimise disruption in the city.

On Saturday both groups were not assemble before noon and they must conclude or disperse no later than 3pm.

Having said that, on the day, members of Carlisle Action Group/Enough is Enough were a lot closer to the Market Cross than the blue zone and therefore closer to members of Cumbria Against Racism who remained largely in the orange area.

On the whole there was good natured banter, with added colourful language, but there was one incident where a number of individuals from Carlisle Action Group/Enough is Enough broke away and charged at members of Cumbria Against Racism. However they were quickly apprehended by police with some suspects led away in handcuffs.

For clarity members of Carlisle Action Group/Enough is Enough tended to have Union Flags and St George’s Crosses while Cumbria Against Racism held pro-union placards and Socialist Party banners.

On Saturday police confirmed that three men were arrested at the city centre demonstrations following what was described as a ‘single isolated incident’ around 2pm.

They were:

• A 40-year-old man from Carlisle was arrested on suspicion of affray;
• A 40-year-old man from Durham was arrested on suspicion of using threatening behaviour; and
• A 21-year-old man from Carlisle was arrested on suspicion of assault.

As of yesterday all three remained in police custody and it was estimated that 400 people attended the demonstrations.

The gatherings were held in line with events across the United Kingdom, including demonstrations and counter-demonstrations in London organised by political activist Tommy Robinson and Stand Up To Racism.

In a police statement Superintendent Paddy O’Hara said: “I would like to thank the organisers of both protest groups for working with our officers in advance of today’s planned public assemblies.

“Whist the majority of those involved in both protests did so responsibly, lawfully and peacefully, unfortunately there was an incident which resulted in arrests being made.

“We hope this highlights that action will be taken against those engaging in criminal behaviour, which will not be accepted.

“Our priority is always to ensure the safety of our communities, balancing the right to protest and prevent crime, disorder and disruption.”

I have to thank my Ukrainian photographer friend Veronika Zolotoverkha, who moved to the UK following the Russian invasion, for letting me use these shots of me at the demo.