Two people have been arrested during an anti-lockdown protest in Liverpool.
Around 400 people converged in the city centre on Saturday as the region embarked on a pioneering testing scheme to limit the spread of coronavirus.
A ‘Tier 3’ restriction was imposed on the Merseyside region ahead of last week’s nationwide lockdown, which is set to run until at least December 2.
Protestors refused to wear masks as they clashed with police in ugly scenes along the Strand and Church Street during the two-hour demonstration.
A 37-year-old man was arrested for assaulting an officer while a 23-year-old male, who was previously wanted on a warrant, was also detained.
Police also confirmed that they hfined three people and issued anti-social behaviour dispersal notices to a further seven in connection with the fracas.
Chief Superintendent Paul White said: “A significant amount of people turned up in Liverpool city centre this afternoon and showed complete disregard for the legislation which has been put in place for four weeks to protect our communities.
“We are now gathering evidence and carrying out a number of enquiries to identify those who attended, in particular those involved in organising the event, so that further enforcement action can be taken.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact @MerPolCC, or by calling 101 quoting ref 268 of 7 November, or Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.