Updated The leader of Southampton City Council has issued a statement ahead of possible protests in the city.

A number of messages have reportedly been circulating on social media about the possibility of a demonstration in Southampton sometime this week*, and in the light of events in other cities the council is said to be “taking every potential threat seriously” and “preparing to respond with every resource [they] have available”.

Council leader Cllr Fielker referenced the city’s long history of welcoming people from around the world and its status as a city of Sanctuary.

But she said that anyone coming to Southampton “to whip up criminal, violent or antisocial behaviour is not welcome”.

She said: “While I support the right to peaceful protest, I am disappointed that there is an anti-immigration demonstration scheduled to happen in Southampton and we will work with the Police to ensure that the event takes place without the violence and destruction seen elsewhere in the country. However, there is disinformation being shared on social media, with the clear intention to incite hate and increase tensions in local communities.”

Her full statement is here.

* Update:It's understood a demonstration has been promoted for Wednesday evening (Aug 7), with another protest by Southampton Stand Up to Racism from 7pm nearby at the Peace Fountain in East Park. Southampton Stand Up to Racism are also organising a 'Unity Rally' for 1pm at the Bargate on Saturday (Aug 10).