MERSEYSIDE Police had warned people to stay out of Liverpool City Centre today due to a planned EDL march.

More than 100 police officers lined the streets of Liverpool while protestors Merseyside United Against Fascism grouped near Lime Street Station.

English Defence League demonstrators gathered at the Lord Warden pub on London Road in the city from around midday while an anti-fascist demonstration was held outside nearby Lime Street train station.

A heavy police presence moved the EDL demonstrators after the anti-fascist contingent gathered on London Road and chanted "Nazi scum, off our streets".

The EDL demonstration was moved to Camden Street, at the side of the pub, where protesters were contained by police.

The group said the protest was being held to highlight a number of issues, including Islamic terrorism.

Members from branches including Coventry and the North East waved St George's flags.

Last year 34 people were arrested due to clashes between protestors and the far-right group.

A Section 60 Order has also been put in place ahead of the proposed EDL procession.

Authorised by a senior police officer, the order means that officers can search people for offensive weapons.

Wirral Globe:

The order is in place now until 9pm and will cover the area of: Upper Parliament Street, Grove Street, Low Hill, Erskine Street, New Islington, Byron Street, Leeds Street, King Edward Street, Strand Street, Wapping, Chaloner Street and Parliament Street.

Chief inspector Mark Morgan said: “We have had previous processions in the city which have resulted in disorder between those involved in a public procession and counter protestors.

"In line with intelligence we are aware that some people may come to the city (as a result of this procession) with the intent to cause serious public disorder, serious damage to property and serious disruption to those working, visiting and living in the city, we have decided to implement the Section 60 notice.

“I would like to reassure the community that we are absolutely committed to tackling those intent on committing crime, or disorder, and our aim is to facilitate a peaceful procession.

"Additional officers will be in the city centre tomorrow to police the event and they will be supported by officers from British Transport Police, Lancashire, Cumbria, Cheshire and North Wales.”