Thousands of demonstrators have gathered in central London for a march led by right-wing activist Tommy Robinson, prompting the deployment of approximately 1,000 police officers to maintain peace amid expected counter-demonstrations. The event, touted by Robinson as “the biggest patriotic rally the UK has ever seen,” began at the Royal Courts of Justice and progressed to Trafalgar Square by midday on Saturday.

Participants in the march were seen wearing apparel adorned with the Union, English, Scottish, and Welsh flags, and many were chanting patriotic songs including “Rule Britannia,” as well as slogans like “We want our country back” and echoing Robinson’s name. The demonstration also featured a number of Israeli flags being flown by attendees.

Amidst the rally, instances of heightened enthusiasm were noted, including one demonstrator who climbed atop a phone box, while others held placards stating “Not far right, just right.”

Simultaneously, a counter-protest organized by Stand Up To Racism and the Peace & Justice Project, formerly led by Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, is taking place. This protest, supported by the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and numerous other groups, began at Russell Square and is set to culminate in a rally at Whitehall. This move is part of a broader response involving multiple organizations, including Stop the War Coalition and Unite Against Fascism.

Chief Superintendent Colin Wingrove, overseeing the weekend’s operations, emphasized the readiness of the police to act decisively against any breaches of the peace or public order. “Our first priority is to keep the peace to ensure that those exercising their right to lawful protest can do so safely,” he stated. The police have employed powers under the Public Order Act to manage the timing and routes of the marches and assemblies, aiming to keep the opposing groups apart.

In addition to the right-wing rally and its counter-protest, a Trans Pride event is also being held, featuring a march from Langham Place to Wellington Arch, where speeches are scheduled to take place. The police have noted that no specific conditions have been imposed in advance of this event.

With a significant police presence on the streets of London, authorities are urging the public and participants to cooperate with law enforcement to maintain order and safety throughout the day’s events.