COUNCILLORS have praised police officers who were on duty during protests in Weymouth and have condemned acts of "bigotry" and "racism" amid violent disorder around the UK.

As previously reported, two police officers were injured and three people were arrested during protests in Weymouth. One of them has been charged.

A fourth man has since been arrested and charged.

READ MORE: Man due to appear in court following Weymouth protests

READ MORE: Weymouth: Man to appear in court following protests

An anti-immigrant protest billed as 'Enough is Enough' took place at the seafront on Sunday, with a counter demo by Stand Up to Racism at the same location.

It follows unrest across the UK after the Southport stabbings - fuelled by false information circulating online, anti-immigrant feelings and the far-right.

READ MORE: Dorset police officers praised Weymouth protest response

Dorset Council leader Nick Ireland has thanked the emergency services while deploring "acts of racism and hatred".

He said: “Following the disturbances that have been taking place up and down the country, including the protests in Weymouth on Sunday, we deplore the acts of racism and hatred that have unfolded.

"They are a stark reminder of the work still needed to push bigotry out of our society forever.

"We want Dorset to continue to be a place that celebrates and welcomes people from all walks of life, both those who live here, and those who visit our beautiful county. We are proud of the diversity of our communities, bringing together many different cultures, traditions, and histories. It is this diversity that makes us stronger, more resilient, and more vibrant.

“We would like to express our thanks to the police officers and other emergency services, including those from Dorset, who have supported communities across the country in dealing with these terrifying scenes. In Dorset in particular, thank you to everyone involved, from many organisations, to ensure the safety of our residents over the past week and especially during the protests here on Sunday."

He added: "In these difficult times, we must renew our commitment to stand together against hate.

READ MORE: Weymouth protests: Bottles thrown at police and arrests made

"We must make sure that Dorset remains a place of peace, hope, tolerance and unity.

"We do not accept any form of bigotry in Dorset."

Jon Orrell, Mayor of Weymouth, said: “We support the work of the police as they bravely work for us to protect the public, to bring justice, and to keep the peace.

"I have written to Dorset Police to express my heartfelt thanks to the officers who contained the protest in Weymouth on Sunday afternoon.

“They acted in a professional and proportionate manner, stepping up to match surges without causing unnecessary confrontation. Weymouth escaped the inexcusable behaviour seen in other towns and cities thanks to the actions of the police.

“I would also like to thank Dorset Council who gave us a great deal of support in the run up and during Sunday’s event; a good example of true partnership working across local government.

“We must come together to embrace diversity in our communities, and I stand united with fellow councillors, community and faith leaders in our continued desire for peace and justice.”