CHESHIRE Police have warned that they are ready to take action against groups intent on causing “violent disorder” after a week of civil unrest in towns and cities across the country.

Thousands of police are preparing for more possible riots across England, with reports that as many as 100 protests could be planned.

The fatal stabbing of three girls in Southport on Monday (July 29) sparked riots in the Merseyside town, these were followed by similar scenes in Liverpool, Middlesborough, Hull, Bristol and London among other areas.

These incidents have seen multiple violent clashes between police and individuals, many expressing far-right and anti-immigration sentiments.

A 17-year-old man, Axel Rudakubana, has been charged with the murder of the three girls in Southport. Rudakubana, from Bank in Lancashire, was born in Cardiff to Rwandan parents and has no known links to Islam.

More than 400 arrests have been made following the ensuing riots across Britain and Northern Ireland.

In a statement, Chief Superintendent Jon Betts said: “We are aware of speculation surrounding a possible planned protests across the country, and the rumours circulating in our communities regarding potential incidents in Cheshire, and I want to reassure residents that we are fully prepared to deal with anyone intent on causing disorder in our communities.

“Violent disorder will not be tolerated in Cheshire and we’re working closely with our partners to ensure the safety of our residents.

“We have extensive resources in place to ensure that robust action can be taken against anyone who breaks the law.

“We will also use all the resources available to us, including facial recognition and ANPR, to ensure that anyone who commits an offence is held accountable for their actions.

“I would also urge residents not to share any of the malicious or inaccurate information which has been posted on social media platforms. These messages have been posted in order to cause hate and disorder in our communities.

“We have already arrested and charged a number of people in relation to these messages, and anyone else who is found to be encouraging such offences, be that online or in person, will also be dealt with.”

To report any offences please visit www.cheshire.police.uk/tell-us, or call 101.

In an emergency call 999.