Police urge Black Lives Matter protestors to observe social distancing during Saturday's march in Northampton

Police are urging people taking part in a Black Lives Matter march in Northampton to observe social distancing guidelines.

The march is due to take part this afternoon, Saturday.

In a statement issued this afternoon, a spokesperson for Northamptonshire Police said: "We are aware of a protest due to take place in Northampton this afternoon, as people continue to call for justice following the death of George Floyd.

"We understand that people want to make their voices heard and the right to peaceful protest is a key part of any democracy which Northamptonshire Police will facilitate. Covid-19 remains a danger to us all and we strongly encourage everyone taking part in today’s protest to follow social distancing guidelines.

"Police officers will be on hand to ensure those using Northampton town centre and taking part in the protest are kept safe," the police said.

One of the organisers of the protest, Michelle Gordan, told the Chronicle & Echo before the march: "These marches are about raising racial awareness that has been pushed under the rug.

"[Saturday's protest] is about showing Northampton has a big caring community and if we need to we will can together to make a change, whether that's racism in the police or in schools or in job opportunities.

"It's not just about protesting. yes, it is about making our voices heard, but from there you need to make a change. We want people to see our protest and think about what racial inequality has affected their lives.

"We want people to write to the Equality and Diversity Board about times the police have treated them unfairly.

"We would like to write to the council to ask for a youth club or a building as a base for black and ethnic minorities in Northampton, where we can keep our children off the streets and teach them about their history and heritage and as a place to be sporty."