Roads cordoned off for protests

street lights on Gallowtree Gate Street lights on Gallowtree Gate will glow green to highlight peace events across the city

Part of Leicester is being cordoned off ahead of two protests expected to take place in the city centre.

The English Defence League (EDL) is due to hold a demonstration and Unite Against Fascism (UAF) will stage a counter-protest.

Several roads around the eastern part of the city will be closed from 0900 until 1800 BST.

The groups are banned from marching but will be escorted to hold static protests in Humberstone Gate East.

Officers from 13 forces will be on hand to maintain order. It is expected to be the largest police operation in Leicester for several decades.

Some bus routes will also be disrupted, so temporary stops have been set up in Belgrave Gate and Abbey Street.

A map showing details of road closures and other public information is available on the council’s website.

A series of “green-themed peace events”, including a performance by musician Billy Bragg, were held in Leicester on Friday and more are expected to take place on Sunday.

Some street lights will glow green, and the city council has urged people to wear green ribbons and attend the peace events as an alternative to taking part in any demonstrations.

This article is from the BBC News website. © British Broadcasting Corporation, The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites.

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