POLICE have issued a warning to protesters ahead of demonstrations planned in Weymouth on Sunday - and have increased the number of officers working to "ensure public safety".

As previously reported, two protests will be taking place on the Esplanade on Sunday.

One of the protests is thought to be an anti-immigrant demonstration.

Little is known about it except for a poster promoting the event being circulated locally by some residents on social media which says 'Enough is enough'.

It says a protest will take place on Sunday, August 4 at 5pm at the Jubilee Clock.

The planned gathering comes after a week of unrest with violent protests linked to the far-right taking place around the UK following the Southport stabbings.

Stand Up To Racism Dorset is set to hold a counter-protest on Sunday.

Police have issued a warning to protesters that public order or criminal offences will "not be tolerated".

Dorset Police has also increased resourcing, to ensure "continued safety of the public and officers".

Assistant Chief Constable for Dorset Police, Mark Callaghan, said: "Dorset Police is aware of two planned demonstrations due to be held on the Esplanade in Weymouth town centre on Sunday, August 4.

"We have been liaising with the organisers of both protests to ensure people can exercise their right to protest legally and safely without causing significant or ongoing disruption to residents, visitors and businesses.

"We will seek to enable peaceful protests, but let me be clear that if people are intent on committing public order or criminal offences, they will be dealt with robustly as such behaviours will not be tolerated.

"I ask that people enjoy what Dorset has to offer, but consider the increased demands the warm weather has on our public services.

"To ensure the continued safety of the public and our officers, we have increased our resourcing this weekend. I am grateful to those officers who have given up their time off with their families and friends to deliver a safe Dorset for our communities."