Police have warned that offenders will be dealt with swiftly should violence break out at an Oxford protest tonight.

A unity rally held by Oxford Stand Up To Racism amid anti-migrant demonstrations across the country on Monday saw hundreds attend in Oxford City Centre.

Another demonstration is to take place at 7pm tonight (Wednesday, August 7) in Magdalen Road with the left-wing group warning that Asylum Welcome needs to be “defended” from the far-right.

Thames Valley Police has issued a statement in response to this and other potential incidents that could turn violent across the county this evening.

READ MORE: Major Oxford protest to take place TODAY as refugee centre ‘very concerned’

Pat Carmody at the protest on Cornmarket Street.Pat Carmody at the protest on Cornmarket Street. (Image: Newsquest)

A spokesperson for the force said: “We are aware that the recent disorder seen across the country has left our communities feeling unsafe.

“We are working closely with local and national partners and are monitoring a variety of sources including social media and reports from the public to identify planned protest or disruption in our area and will keep local communities up to date with the latest information.

“Should any planned protests or spontaneous incidents escalate into violent disorder seen elsewhere in the country, we are prepared and officers will swiftly and robustly respond and deal with those choosing to cause harm to our communities.

“Please be vigilant to the misleading comments that are circulating social media about potential protest activity.

READ MORE: ‘Right-wing are having POGROMS’ say protesters in city centre

Signs were held at the protest on Monday.Signs were held at the protest on Monday. (Image: Newsquest)

"Please think twice about what you read, share and believe from online sources.

"There are a lot of motivations for why people may be sharing information so be critical, challenge what you see and if in doubt, look to trusted voices.”

Assistant Chief Constable Christian Bunt added: “I recognise that the disorder seen across the country will cause concern amongst our communities as well as our own officers and staff.

“We have well-rehearsed plans in place to deal with any issues that may arise and will take the most robust stance possible against violence, hatred and discrimination of any kind to hold those who choose to cause harm to our communities accountable for their actions.

READ MORE: More Oxford protests planned this week

“Our intelligence teams are working hard to monitor a number of sources to spot misinformation and suggestions of protests and investigating where necessary.

“Please be reassured that our neighbourhood officers are continuing to patrol local communities, so if you have any concerns, or if you see them out and about, please do speak with them.

“If you see or hear anything suspicious, please contact us by making a report online, calling 101 or by making a report online, or by calling 999 in an emergency.

“We know our communities don’t want disorder on their doorstep – no one should be fearful to leave the house, go to a place of worship or live in a given area. You have our full support and that of our partners.”

READ MORE: Violent thugs ‘not welcome in our city’: Community defiant over protests

Protesters Protesters are planning to assemble in Oxford again. (Image: Newsquest)

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