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Dover protests: Rival groups to protest on St George's Day

Kent Police were right to predict that two opposing rallies would not result in a St George's Day clash - the far right didn't even turn up.

Police were posted at Dover's Market Square for a small scale demo by anti fascists and at Dover Priory for a supposed St George's Day meet by the far right.

But January and April's recent violent clashes were not repeated and Dover Priory and Folkestone Road carried on as normal.

Police presence in Market Square
Police presence in Market Square

Three police cars, a police van and around 20 officers were posted at the railway station, where the far-right group was due to meet.

But 1pm came and went and there was no sign of any protest.

Meanwhile an earlier demonstration at The Market Square ended peacefully and campaigners packed up their things and went home by 1.30pm.

Speaking earlier this week, Assistant Chief Constable Neil Jerome said: "We have not been formally informed of any intention by the groups to protest or march.

"There is likely to be a gathering of people at Market Square, and another near Priory Station but these are expected to be 'static' events and attract fewer numbers than we saw at the protests in Dover on 2 April and the end of January.

Police boxed the anti-fascist demonstrators in during the early April demonstration
Police boxed the anti-fascist demonstrators in during the early April demonstration

"Therefore, I’d like to reassure the community that these events are not currently expected to cause any major disruption to local roads or the wider community.

'We are not expecting the events to generate disorder.

The far right protestors escorted by the police earlier this month
The far right protestors escorted by the police earlier this month
Far right protesters wave flags during the rally weeks ago
Far right protesters wave flags during the rally weeks ago

"There will be a proportionate police presence in the town and officers will be prepared for any potential incidents that may arise.

"Should it be necessary, our role will be to facilitate the right to peaceful protest and to minimise disruption."

He says the protest coincides with St George's Day, but he is aware of other civic events planned, including the annual Zeebrugge Memorial by Dover Town Council.

Blood pours down the face of injured man during the January clash
Blood pours down the face of injured man during the January clash

The announcement comes after two similar protests in the town earlier this year.

In January several people were arrested and weapons seized as rival demonstrations clashed and marches descended into violence.

Meanwhile, earlier this month, police stepped up their presence, and at least 16 people were arrested in a second disturbance.

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