Skegness protest
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Update 2.40pm, 25 February
We are pleased to report that a planned demonstration in Skegness today (Saturday, 25 February) has passed with no arrests or reported incidents.
We had officers in attendance throughout the town following talks with the organisers of the Enough is Enough demonstration to ensure the safety of the local community and those exercising their right to lawful protest.
It is estimated that around 200 people were in attendance.
Following the demonstration crowds dispersed peacefully.
Superintendent Pat Coates said: “We have a duty to uphold the right to lawful protest, which is a fundamental part of our democracy, and Lincolnshire Police facilitated that right today.
"We planned for this demonstration through talks with the organisers and drawing on our experience of these events, which enabled us to help it pass without incident. Our planning centred around ensuring the safety of protestors, the public and police officers involved, preventing criminal behaviour or disorder and deescalating tensions.
"During the day our officers engaged with protestors, members of the local community, and visitors to the town while they were on patrol to help ease concerns and diffuse tensions. We’d like to thank everyone for supporting our efforts to make this a safe and lawful incident.”
Original release:
Lincolnshire Police will be monitoring and patrolling a planned demonstration in Skegness on Saturday, 25 February.
We are in talks with organisers of the Enough is Enough demonstration and officers will be present on the day.
Superintendent Pat Coates said: “The right to lawful protest is a key part of our democracy and Lincolnshire Police will uphold and facilitate this right. We will maintain an open dialogue with any protesters.
“The guiding principles of policing protests are the safety of protestors, the public and police officers involved, preventing criminal behaviour or disorder and deescalating tensions.
“Our officers also seek to find the right balance between the rights of protestors and those of the local residents, and businesses, and will work to minimise serious disruption to communities and protect critical infrastructure where it is necessary.”