By Rachael Grealish

Carlisle Against Racism is holding a protest in the city centre to send a “clear message” that “Cumbria is not for racism, Islamophobia or fascism”.

The organisation is holding a peaceful demonstration today, August 10, to show “racism and discrimination is not welcome” in the city.

The demonstration will take place between 12pm (midday) and 1pm at the Carlisle Old Town Hall.

In the social media post organisers said it is a “peaceful demonstration, bringing like minded people together, to show that Racism and Discrimination is not welcome on our streets in Carlisle”

They continued: “We are inviting individuals, organisations, trade union/trade unionists who are willing to take a (peaceful) stance in the centre of Carlisle city (by Old Town Hall).

“The working-class has suffered ENOUGH at the hands of misinformation by millionaires/billionaires (and their blood-soaked media), violence and class exploitation. It is not enough just to SAY we ‘aren’t racist’, we must SHOW it.”

However, this demonstration is going ahead despite Cumbria Police putting a dispersal order in place across the city centre from 10am today until midnight with organisers stating they have “made Cumbria Police aware that we’ll be there demonstrating peacefully”.

Police have stated public should expect an increased police presence throughout the day.

Additional powers have been put in place to provide officers with enhanced stop and search capabilities and the authority to order the removal of face coverings intended to disguise or conceal a person’s appearance.

Officers will also have the power to seize any item used in the commission of anti-social behaviour.

Chief Superintendent Carl Patrick said: “The dispersal order and additional powers will ensure officers on the streets have the authorisation to act swiftly if confronted by groups or individuals intent on engaging in violent disorder.

“Public safety is our number one priority and officers on the ground will work to ensure that the law-abiding majority of people are free to go about their business in the city without fear.

“Whilst we will continue to support and facilitate the right to peaceful protest, our message to anyone intending to engage in disorder is to stay away. Officers will respond swiftly and decisively to any individuals who engage in criminality.”