DORSET Police said it tried to dissuade protesters from campaigning against Covid restrictions in Bournemouth but thanked them for their “sensible approach”.

Throughout the week, Dorset Police monitored plans to protest in the area of the Town Hall on Saturday.

Following an apparent lack of engagement, efforts were made to dissuade the protesters from going ahead with the event.  

However, following changes to Covid-19 regulations, there is now an exemption to allow peaceful protests. This exemption only applies if the organisers take the required precautions to ensure people’s safety is not put at risk. 

Superintendent Jared Parkin of Dorset Police said: “We have always sought to find the right balance between the rights of protestors and those of residents and businesses, while also considering the very real risks from the spread of the virus.

“Without doubt, we have seen a very sensible approach to protest by those attending. We are grateful for their co-operation and engagement at today’s event.

“Coronavirus is a deadly disease and the current legislation in relation to it aims to prevent its spread. At this time officers are trying to strike a balance between established rights and policing of Covid-19 restrictions in an effort to maintain the confidence of all groups of our communities.

“We must remember that the threat of Covid-19 remains and we must do all we can to stick within the restrictions to help keep people safe.”