One arrest after Nuneaton immigration protest

Police have described protests in Nuneaton as peaceful.

Hundreds of people gathered at the Town Hall at midday on Saturday (9th August) to protest against immigration, waving Union flags. 

It comes after two men, who are reportedly asylum seekers, were charged in connection with the rape of a 12-year-old girl in the town. 

There was also a counter protest by the group Stand Up to Racism. 

The group marched through the town centre chanting "stop the boats" and "we want our country back." 

Police said the protest ended at 3:30pm and described them as "peaceful."

In a post on social media, Nuneaton & Bedworth Police confirmed one arrest had been made. 

They said a 17 year old boy from Nuneaton was arrested on suspicion of making threats to cause criminal damage and remains in custody. 

The Chief Constable of Warwickshire Police had issued a warning ahead of the planned protests saying:

Claire Armes said  “We understand people are concerned and they've been asking lots of questions around planned protest activity in the county later this week. We police without fear or favour. People may peacefully protest but we won’t tolerate criminal or violent behaviour.We will deal with anyone committing crime or anti-social behaviour swiftly and robustly." 

Photographs courtesy of Hinckley Town Centre