Police prepare for demonstrations in Wellington

Today officers disclosed more details of the plans put in place to ensure that both assemblies remain lawful and peaceful and how they intend to move protesters around the town.

The EDL is due to hold an assembly in Church Street between 2pm and 4pm and the unity rally will also be held in the afternoon on the Nailor's Row Car Park.

Chief Inspector Keith Gee, who has been involved in planning the police operation, said: "We're expecting a large number of protesters to travel from outside Shropshire and this naturally presents a challenge: how we get them from their various modes of transport to the protest sites, particularly when public processions have now been banned by the Home Secretary.

"Our role is to facilitate peaceful assembly on the day, to ensure that the groups involved can exercise their democratic right to free speech whilst causing as little disruption as possible to those not involved, who want to go about their business as usual.

"You can therefore expect to see groups being walked to the assembly sites in the company of police officers. This isn't police protection. It's a way of us ensuring that everyone gets where they need to be without fear of provocation or disruption.

"We will be accompanying coaches carrying EDL supporters to their assembly site, which again ensures they get to exactly where they want to be, avoiding the need for us to move large groups of people on foot and without causing disruption to the wider community."

"Some roads in Wellington will be closed and bus routes have also been affected. If your journey is delayed or disrupted we would ask for your patience and co-operation."

Police have had to plan for people arriving by coach, car and train. British Transport Police are helping with the operation at Wellington Railway Station and officers from neighbouring forces and elsewhere are lending their assistance.

A significant number of police and civilian staff are working to ensure the protests remain peaceful and that Wellington returns to normal as soon as possible after the assemblies conclude later today.

"Although we will be setting out to be as proactive as possible and nip any trouble in the bud, if problems arise or the assemblies do not remain peaceful we have the capacity to bring in additional officers. People can be reassured that we will not tolerate disorder of any kind and will take robust action to protect people and property.

"Of course our officers on the ground will also have the support of specialist sections such as dog handlers and the force helicopter should they be required."

Another big part of the preparation is the use of the Public Order Act. Police have utilised Sections 12 and 14 of the Act to limit the assembly time and the numbers taking part.

Chief Inspector Gee said: "We have powers to enforce this legislation and officers will be briefed to take proportionate action to ensure the assemblies disperse when they should and in a peaceful manner.

Following the assemblies police and council teams will ensure a smooth and safe return to business as usual.

Chief Inspector Gee added: "I want to reassure everyone in Wellington, Telford and indeed Shropshire as a whole that while we will be running a large scale policing operation, the day-to-day policing of your neighbourhoods will continue."