Officers in Somerset 'on standby' in case of demonstration
The Prime Minister addressed senior police chiefs in a third emergency Cobra meeting
We're being warned the threat of more disorder on the streets has "not gone away".
Peaceful demonstrators have outnumbered far-right protests for the past two nights, but the Prime Minister's told police they need to remain on "high alert".
Somerset Commander Superintendent Lisa Simpson says 200 police officers will be ready to act should there be more disruption in the region.
In a statement she said the force never want to downplay residents concerns but they do not have any further evidence there will be any more demonstrations.
“We will have more than 200 officers on standby, ready to act in an instant if people begin to gather and engage in any kind of anti-social behaviour or criminality.
“These officers will mostly be local officers but we’re also bringing in others from neighbouring police forces and further afield.
“In addition, our mounted, dog and drone units will also be in the area should we need.”
"unrest will not succeed"
She added: “Given the scenes we have all witnessed take place in towns and cities across the country in recent days, we feel it is proportionate to stand up this operation.
“The Neighbourhood Policing Team has been in regular contact with community and faith leaders as well as local businesses to keep them informed about what we know.
“It’s apparent through these conversations that people are keen for advice on whether they should avoid the town centre this weekend and whether they should board up their businesses.
“This is not something we would ever advise on. We will provide people with what we do and don’t know to enable them to make their own informed decisions.
“Finally, I’d like to thank local residents for their support and engagement with us in these unusual times.
“It’s by working closely with our communities that we will ensure those who threaten to cause unrest will not succeed.”