Pubs and other establishments in Hereford have been warned to be aware, following rumours online of a possible protest in the city centre this weekend.
A letter / email was distributed to licensed premises on Friday, detailing that there were rumours that a ‘gathering’ had been planned. Police have told business owners that it is ‘business as usual’ and to contact them should a situation occur.
West Mercia Police have advised the public that local agencies are working together to ensure they remain vigilant and prepared after large-scale disorder elsewhere in the country.
From West Mercia Police:
Local agencies are working together to ensure we remain vigilant and prepared after large-scale disorder elsewhere in the country.
The criminal behaviour has not been imitated across Herefordshire, Shropshire or Worcestershire, and there is no confirmed intelligence of any planned unlawful activity over the coming days, but we remain vigilant, prepared and confident in our ability to respond.
Local agencies are working together to ensure we are ready and fully prepared to maintain the safety of the public. We recognise some people might feel concerned by these events and would like to reassure you that it is business as usual in our counties.
Acts of hate have no place in our society, and we are proud of the community cohesion in our towns and cities.
Assistant Chief Constable Grant Wills from West Mercia Police said: “We understand that there is concern amongst our communities and we remain a visible presence in our towns, cities and at community events for your reassurance.
“Given the national news there is a very natural reaction to share rumours that you may see online, but misinformation is unhelpful, and we ask that you check trusted sources for the facts before you hit share.
“Whilst we won’t comment on specific rumours, so as not to encourage disorder, be rest assured that if action is needed for your safety this message will be loud and clear.”
Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said:
“The riots, and inexcusable behaviours, that we have seen elsewhere in the country over the last week will no doubt have caused concern and upset to all community groups.
“In West Mercia, we have not seen those same events. This is testament to local people coming together and standing against violence and disorder. Should we find ourselves in a situation where that changes, I know that West Mercia Police has the resources it needs to take swift and decisive action.”
Lezley Picton, leader of Shropshire Council, said:
“We are deeply appalled and saddened by the violence and disorder driven by racism and hate in different parts of the country, in the aftermath of the truly shocking events that led to the loss of three young lives and critical injuries to children and adults.
“Seeing this flare-up of racism will no doubt leave many people feeling afraid and unwelcome and will of course cause a lot of concern and anxiety.
“We want to be very clear, we will not tolerate any harassment or abuse to those who are being targeted. To those who have been affected, our message is simple: you are welcome, and you are valued members of our community. We are united and resolute in our message of solidarity and compassion for anyone affected by this appalling behaviour.
“We celebrate and benefit from a hugely diverse region. Indeed, it is one of our strengths. It is everyone’s right to feel welcome and valued. We have a responsibility, through our collective actions, to show this more clearly now than ever before.
“Our position is of zero-tolerance towards racism and discrimination, and we are committed to ensuring that everybody feels safe, supported, and welcome.”
Area Manager for Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service, Mark Price, said: “Although recent national events have been unsettling and upsetting to many, please rest assured that, as always, Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service stand ready and prepared to respond wherever we are needed to serve the communities of the county.”
Councillor Lynn Denham, Leader of Worcester City Council, said: “Worcester is a vibrant, creative, warm and beautiful place to live and while I know people are concerned about recent events elsewhere in the country, I want them to know that it is business as usual in our city. In particular, the Worcester Show is going ahead as planned at Pitchcroft on Sunday and will provide a packed programme of entertainment for all the family.”
