Three people were arrested on Saturday during a Britain First march and rally in Manchester city centre, which saw significant police presence and counter demonstrations. Hundreds of far-right supporters gathered on Store Street from around noon before marching to St Peter's Square for a rally. A counter protest organised by a coalition of anti-racism groups called Resist Britain First took place in Piccadilly Gardens.
Greater Manchester Police deployed a substantial operation, with enhanced stop-and-search powers under a Section 60 order and a dispersal order under Section 34. The police presence was increased after violence and clashes at a similar event in February led to 11 arrests. This time, officers contained the two groups separately, with counter protesters held in St Peter's Square.
Disruption to transport was significant. Metrolink trams were suspended across the city centre after counter protesters blocked the tracks, and several bus services were diverted. The Bee Network confirmed diversions for routes including 35, 36, 37, 38, 50, 113, 114, V1, V2 and V4.
Of the three arrests, one man was held on suspicion of breaching Section 60AA of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, relating to the removal of face coverings. Another man was arrested on suspicion of assaulting a police officer, and a woman was detained on suspicion of breaching the peace. Police confirmed it was unknown if she was affiliated with either group.
Reporters on the ground described the city centre as 'split in two', with controlled corridors of movement and a heavy police presence dominating the day. The dispersal order remains in place until 8pm, allowing officers to direct people to leave the area. Trams resumed after the protest concluded, with some diversions still in effect.
