A BLACK Lives Matter protest due to take place outside the old town hall in Blackburn on Monday 15 June has been postponed due to coronavirus concerns.

A wave of protests have swept across the world following the killing of George Floyd by white police officers in America, with East Lancashire no exception.

However, local organisers have decided that the increase in the R-rate, which monitors coronavirus infections, in the north west of England has meant that a large gathering would present too great a risk, with police already having warned of the dangers.

A police spokesperson said: "We know people want to make their voices heard.

"The right to lawful protest is key part of any democracy, which Lancashire Constabulary will continue to uphold and facilitate.

"However, coronavirus remains a deadly disease and there are still restrictions in place to prevent its spread, which include not gathering outside in groups of more than six people.

"So for whatever reason people want to come together, we ask that people continue to work with officers at this challenging time."

As such protestors hope to hold the event at a later date when the threat of infection has receded.

A statement issued by Black Lives Matter organisers said: "The organisers of the event are working hard behind the scenes and plan to work with the police and the council on how we can facilitate peaceful protest during the current health pandemic."

It added: "The fight isn't over, keep talking, keep challenging racism, keep fighting for black lives."

The new date for the protest is yet to be confirmed.