20 people were arrested across Lancashire on Saturday (August 3) after protesters marched the streets of the county.

Following this week’s tragic incident in Southport and further outbreaks of violence across the country, police became aware of possible disorder and protests planned in the county.

Dispersal orders were issued in parts of Blackpool, Preston and Blackburn, with a number of arrests made after some disruption.

Offences included possession of an offensive weapon, police assault, possession of a bladed article, obstructing police, conspiracy to commit violent disorder and failing to adhere to a dispersal order.

Only minor disruption was reported in Blackburn and Preston, with the majority of the policing response focused in Blackpool close to Talbot Square.

At the time of writing, it is believed no officers were injured during the operation.

ACC Phil Davies, of Lancashire Police, said: “We have today made a significant number of arrests following tension in Blackpool and some minor disruption in parts of Preston and Blackburn.

"In Blackpool, we have witnessed some mindless thuggery from individuals, who we believe to be from outside of the county, intent on causing issues in our communities.

“We have also seen some small pockets of tension elsewhere in the county, but, thanks to a robust partnership response to our policing plan, this was swiftly dealt with.

“I would like to thank the good people of our communities for their support during today's operation.

“Lancashire Police will continue to respond robustly to anyone planning disorder.”