1,000 officers called in to beef up Manchester conference security

POLICE are preparing to mount an unprecedented security operation ahead of the Conservative party’s annual conference in Manchester because of concerns over Left-wing protests.

At least a 1,000 officers and extra armed police will be drafted for the four-day event as part of a £2million plan to protect attendees. The Manchester force confirmed it is expecting thousands to turn up to protest on Sunday. A second entrance has been created for the site, as well as separate area away from the public for attendees to queue as they pass through airportstyle security checks.

Delegates will also be advised to hide their conference lanyards when they are outside the secure zone. It comes after similar protests in the city two years ago, when some activists spat at those attending the event.

Left-wing protesters have already unveiled posters across the city making clear that Conservative delegates are not welcome next week.

So far plans are said to include a “f--k the Tories” party, a 200-strong flash mob to meet delegates at Manchester railway station and a protest named “Theresa May: A human catastrophe” to coincide with her speech.

Chief Supt John O’hare warned demonstrators to stick to “peaceful protest”, not to intimidate anyone and not to cross the line “between what’s acceptable and what’s not acceptable”.