English Defence League demonstrators and anti-racism protesters will be limited to 3,000-strong crowds each on Saturday, under new restrictions imposed by police today.

In a bid to prevent public disorder, damage to property and further disruption in Blackburn town centre, Lancashire Constabulary has secured the measure under sections 12 and 14 of the Public Order Act.

The English Defence League will be demonstrating in Northgate from 12.45pm to 1.45pm.

A counter protest, organised by Blackburn and Darwen Unite Against Racism and supported by other groups, will take place between 1pm and 3pm in Sudell Cross.

Assistant Chief Constable Andy Cooke said: “Our top priority is the safety of the community, people visiting Blackburn, demonstrators and counter-demonstrators.

"I believe that these restrictions are necessary to minimise the risk of disorder or damage.”

“Everyone has the right to peacefully protest and we have a duty to allow that to happen.

"We will not tolerate any law breaking, and where crimes are committed we will take robust action.”

Chief Superintendent Bob Eastwood, Divisional Commander for Eastern Division, added: “Blackburn is proud to be a diverse and understanding town where people respect each other and get on well so we would ask that anyone coming to take part in either protest to bear this in mind.

"We ask that you respect the people of the town and their aim to carry on with business as usual by expressing yourself peacefully.”

Blackburn with Darwen Council’s director of policy and communications, Tom Stannard, said: “We totally support these restrictions on numbers.

"We understand that traders are affected and we will support any decisions that will prevent any further disruption.”