Doncaster Pride organisers say "good security" in place amid riot fears
Organisers of this weekend’s Doncaster Pride say “good security” measures will be in place and that they are working with police amid fears of further unrest caused by anti-immigration demonstrations across the UK.
The event is expected to draw thousands of people to Town Fields on Saturday – but the event comes on the back of a string of violent scenes across a number of UK towns and cities which has seen police come under attack, vehicles set on fire and homes and businesses attacked and looted by rioters.
Saturday’s celebrations will begin with a huge parade through the city centre celebrating Doncaster’s LGBTQ+ community followed by a day of music and entertainment.
A spokesperson for Doncaster Pride said: “We’ve had a few messages about security in light of recent protests and unrest.
“We are working with all relevant parties including South Yorkshire Police to monitor the situation in the build up to the parade and the event.
“We have very good security procedures in place for the parade and the event and don’t plan to make any changes.
“Metal detectors and bag searches will be in operation on entry which may cause a slight delay, but safety comes first.”
South Yorkshire Police has revealed that 51 officers were injured in Sunday’s riot at the Holiday Inn Express at Manvers, Wath when a mob of protesters clashed with police outside the hotel which has been used to house asylum seekers.
Rioters pelted officers with fence posts, beer cans, bricks and fireworks and also attempted to set the building on fire.