Lincolnshire Police patrol at Carlton Centre in Lincoln ahead of rumoured protest

Officers from Lincolnshire Police are already patrolling the Carlton Centre in Lincoln ahead of a rumoured anti-immigration protest.

Over the past 48 hours, speculation about a planned protest outside an Immigration Lawyer Services building in the north of the city has circulated on social media.

Although it has since transpired that there is no such business at this location, tensions remain high, with shops unsure whether the protest will still go ahead.

Counter-protests have since been organised by Stand Up To Racism in several locations supposedly being targeted throughout the UK tonight, including Lincoln.

On X, formerly known as Twitter, the group wrote: “The far right have published a list of targets for Wednesday night. Protests are being called to defend them,” the group wrote.

One business in the Carlton Centre, Hot Chocolate Tanning Studio, took to Facebook on Tuesday evening to announce it would be closing early to board up the shop following the speculation.

“This is a temporary measure and the salon will reopen as normal on Thursday morning at 10am,” they wrote. Others remain vigilant and are prepared to close if necessary.

A fire engine was later spotted in the Carlton Centre, but it was not there in response to the rumoured protests. Emergency services have disclosed that there will be a heightened police presence in various areas of the city throughout the day to address any potential disturbances.

Assistant Chief Constable Chris Davison said: “This has been a very difficult week for those communities that have been affected by violent disorder, and our colleagues in other Forces.

“I want to be very clear that violence against anyone – members of the public and those who work in policing – is completely unacceptable.

“Our officers are out in the community talking to community leaders and partners. We are ready to respond swiftly to any reports of disorder in the county. We have specialist officers ready to deploy and our detectives will deal swiftly with anyone who is suspected of committing offences.

“Where necessary, we will also provide mutual aid to other Forces affected by increased policing pressures.

“Our thoughts are with the communities who have been affected by this senseless violence, and those officers who have responded in difficult circumstances with bravery and professionalism.”

The unrest began in Southport last Tuesday after three girls were killed in a knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed event.

In the aftermath, groups of people, many reportedly from outside the town, hurled bricks at police and a local mosque, set fires, and threw bottles, injuring more than 50 police officers.

Similar riots occurred over the weekend in Hull, Rotherham, and Plymouth.