Special hurt as protesters take to streets

A VOLUNTEER special constable was injured as protesters took to the streets of West Yorkshire over the weekend.

About 250 people held a march in support of the jailed former English Defence League leader Tommy Robinson in the centre of Leeds on Saturday afternoon. A counter-protest organised by the Anti-Fascist Network was attended by about 750 people.

Police, including some mounted officers, prevented any contact between the groups, who at one stage were gathered outside both ends of Kirkgate Market.

A spokesman for West Yorkshire Police said there had been “no serious disorder” but confirmed that a special constable was taken to hospital for treatment after being hit by a bottle. Three people were arrested for offences including theft and obstructing a police officer. More than 100 people attended similar protests in Wakefield on Saturday.

Chief Supt Mabs Hussain, the officer in charge of the day’s policing operation, said he was grateful to residents and visitors for their “conduct and co-operation” during the demonstrations.