By: ITV.com
Source: ITV
Anti-Islam protesters who attended the first UK rally by the anti-Islam group Pegida were outnumbered by five to one by people at a counter-demonstration.
In total, police said 375 people attended the Pegida protest in Newcastle, calling for an end to the what they called fundamental Islam in the UK.
Meanwhile more than 2,000 joined a march organised by the group Newcastle Unites, who said the Pegida supporters were not welcome.
Both events in Newcastle passed peacefully. Northumbria Police made five arrests during “isolated incidents” in the city centre.
“The vast majority of those that took part in today’s events were peaceful and both groups stuck to their agreed times, routes and plans.
“Disruption was kept to a minimum in the city centre and we are very grateful for the assistance and patience shown by the public and those in Newcastle this morning.
“As a force we respect the right to peaceful protest and take a neutral standpoint, not supporting or endorsing any groups or individuals.
“Our aim was to ensure public safety and to minimize disruption to the city centre during today’s events and everything went to plan.”