Three arrested after English Defence League protest

Three men were arrested today on suspicion of committing racially aggravated public order offences at a protest staged by members of the English Defence League.

Around 30 people took part in the demonstration in Chelmsford city centre, a spokesman for Essex Police said.

A 35-year-old man from Rochester in Kent, a 19-year-old man from Dagenham, Essex, and an 18-year-old man from Yateley in Hampshire are currently in custody.

The protest started at around 2.30pm and was contained by police, who had received no prior notification of the demonstration taking place.

It was concluded by 4.30pm, the spokesman said.