A UK police force has banned face coverings in a UK city as rival protests take place. Police invoked two sections of the Public Order Act and one section of the Public Spaces Protection Order in Exeter City today as protesters took to the streets.

In anticipation of any clashes or violence between the groups, Devon and Cornwall Police used specific powers under Sections 12 and 14 of the Public Order Act, as well as Section 60AA, which requires the removal of face coverings. On Saturday, November 22, two protest assemblies and marches, a ‘British Unity Walk’ and an ‘Exeter is For Everyone’ event, were planned to take place.

In response, the police preemptively engaged with organisers, local partners and businesses, to balance the right to protest, with the potential impact of the protests on others, according to the force. The Section 60AA order runs from 10am to 6pm, and the protest organisers and participants were given strict start and finish times of 11am to 3.30pm.

The flag-waving British Unity walk had planned to assemble in Dix’s Field, with the march commencing at 12.30pm and returning by 3pm. On its poster it says: “Bring your flags, bring your families, we’ll do this together.” The group describes itself as “a movement dedicated to the preservation and advancement of the United Kingdom’s values, culture, and heritage”.

Many Brits joinging the movement have become increasingly frustrated with the soaring illegal migration figures this year, claiming they no longer feel safe in their own country.

The opposing Exeter is for Everyone march organised to start in Bedford Square and was asked to commence no later than 12.30pm, returning by 1.30pm.

The rival march aims to stand up for people “from international and marginalised backgrounds” who may “feel unsettled, unsafe or unwelcome as a result”.

Devon and Cornwall Police planned to increase their policing presence during the times of the protests, and officers will be deployed throughout the city.

A force spokesperson said: “Extra officers will be in the area throughout this period to provide a visible presence.

“These powers may be used by officers involved in today’s protests as part of our overall aim of facilitating peaceful protest whilst preventing crime and disorder and balancing the rights of others.

“We are engaged with the organisers of both marches, and officers will be deployed throughout the city to reassure local residents, shoppers, and businesses. This will continue throughout the day.”

In response to the marches, the Labour leader of Exeter City Council issued a statement ahead of the protest, questioning why the British Unity March is taking place.

Cllr Phil Bialyk said: “While people have the right to protest and express their views, we will not tolerate those who seek to cause division, fear and distress among any members of our community.

“A similar march took place only a few weeks ago – which was heavily outnumbered by those opposing it – and I question the need to hold another march so soon afterwards.

“Exeter is proud to be home to many diverse communities and people from different backgrounds, identities and countries of origin.

“Everyone in our city has the right to feel safe, to feel supported and to feel that they belong – these are values we cherish, values that should unite us all.

“As I have said many times before, Exeter is proud to be a City of Sanctuary, a city where everyone should feel welcome – our diversity is one of our great strengths.

“I hope the day again passes without incident, and we can continue with the job of supporting all members of our community and ensuring everyone has the chance to thrive in our great city.”