Thousands took to the streets in a peaceful protest held to counter the threat of far-right riots.

Harrow was braced for anti-immigrant anti-social behaviour on Wednesday night (August 7) following speculation that attacks would take place earlier in the week.

But anti-racist and anti-fascist groups gathered across London to counter any violence from far-right rioters.

Harrow Council said in a statement on Thursday: "Last night, a peaceful counter protest was held in Harrow. 

"We'd like to thank everyone including the police, partners and our council staff who kept Harrow safe last night."

On Monday Harrow Labour had tweeted on X warning of possible riots in the area on Wednesday night. Harrow West MP Gareth Thomas reassured constituents the following day saying there were “no further indications" of a demonstration going ahead in Harrow.

A stop and search dispersal order was authorised across Harrow by the Met between 2pm on Wednesday (August 7) until 2am on Thursday morning.

Late on Wednesday Harrow Council leader Cllr Paul Osborn put out a statement saying he had heard counter protests would take place and urged residents not to attend.

"This will make the job of the police to keep everyone safe harder," he said.

"The police have sought to reassure all Harrow residents that they are well prepared to take the strongest actions against all criminal activity and hate crime this evening, and against anyone coming into the borough to cause trouble, as well as to support our residents to continue to go about their daily lives."

There have been disturbances across the country after the fatal stabbing of three young girls in Southport on July 29, with riots continuing even after false online rumours that the suspect was an Islamic asylum seeker were debunked.