Heavy police presence as rival London marches begin

Right-wing, anti-immigrant protesters and opposing anti-racism demonstrators began large rallies in London on Oct 26, closely watched by a beefed-up police operation aimed at heading off any clashes between the rival gatherings.

A few thousand joined the "Unite the Kingdom" march organised by anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, known by the pseudonym Tommy Robinson, with the march heading towards Parliament, carrying English and British flags, and banners reading "When will the government act for the British public?"

Meanwhile, a counter protest of anti-racism campaigners and trade unionists also gathered, carrying banners saying "refugees welcome" and "smash the far right".

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Rachel Williams, who is leading a policing operation that drafted in officers from around the country, said they were well prepared.