Hero cop tackles suspect

an incident in Reading. My thoughts are with everyone involved, including police and emergency responders at the scene.”

Nieema Hassan, who helped organise the BLM rally, said: “I want to put this out for my family and friends so everyone knows myself and the organisers of the rally and everyone who attended today in support of Black Lives Matter Reading are okay.

“I have goosebumps knowing this has happened only a few hours after we all peacefully came together today to talk about change and equality and it’s pretty heartbreaking that this day has been tarnished with violence.

“Praying and hoping that the people attacked today and their families are going to be okay.”

Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust confirmed at least two people were being treated for injuries at the Royal Berkshire Hospital A&E department. Thames Valley Police said: “Police attended at around 7pm along with other emergency services.

“Officers arrested a man at the scene who is now in police custody.

“A number of people sustained injuries and were taken to hospital.

“A police cordon is in place in Forbury Gardens as officers investigate. We are asking the public to avoid the area at this time.”

Video footage posted online showed shocking scenes of badly hurt victims covered in blood.

Shocked Twitter users begged for it to be taken down. Labour Party deputy leader Angela Rayner tweeted: “It is incredibly upsetting for both the victims and their families.”