Bristol: Huge police presence at ‘Kill the Bill’ protest

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Around 1,000 activists remain in the area having marched through the city centre earlier. Several rows of police in riot gear are guarding the station but thus far the situation has stayed peaceful. Avon and Somerset Police are urging demonstrators to head home.

Police vehicles were targeted with one van being torched by the mob.

Footage from the latest protest shows hundreds moving through Bristol chanting “Kill the Bill”.

Some demonstrators have been taunting police, who are carrying riot shields and helmets.

Protests are currently illegal due to coronavirus regulations.

The demonstration began at 4pm and is expected to extend into the evening.

Pictures from the scene show social distancing guidelines are not being observed by all demonstrators.

Protestors claim the new legislation will make it easier for authorities to ban future demonstrations.

On Twitter Avon and Somerset Police said: “At least 300 people continue to march through Bristol city centre.

“Officers are in attendance and continue to monitor the situation.

“Specialist resources, including horses and dogs, have been deployed.”

Earlier the force asked people to stay away from the protest commenting: “All gatherings remain a breach of COVID restrictions.

“We continue to urge people not to attend.

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“We will take enforcement action if necessary.”

After Sunday’s violence Avon and Somerset Police initially claimed two of their officers suffered broken bones but on Wednesday, following “a full medical assessment”, they confirmed this was not the case.

The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill is currently making its way through Parliament.

Under its terms police can block demonstrations if they risk “serious public disorder, serious damage to property or serious disruption to the life of the community”.

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However critics argue this undermines free speech and could be used to shut down peaceful demonstrations.

Andy Marsh, from Avon and Somerset Police, described Sunday’s violence during an interview with Sky News.

He said: “It was a terrifying scene. Neighbourhood officers were effectively trapped inside the building with people on the roofs throwing fireworks at them, hurling projectiles.

“And the other officers outside doing their very best to protect everyone present.

“It really was a disgraceful scene committed by criminals. I don’t believe this was a protest.”

A demonstration against the new legislation is also planned for Bath.

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