Large crowds of protesters have gathered outside of Holyrood in Edinburgh today in a 'protest against Scotland's lockdown.'
As COVID in Scotland continues to surge with 1,009 new cases confirmed today, Police Scotland urged the protesters to find "alternative ways to protest rather than attending mass gatherings, for example through digital means."
Pictures taken and shared on Twitter from the protest today appear to show hundreds of people gathered outside the parliament bearing placards and loudspeakers.
Police Scotland have warned that they will "go ahead and will act decisively to enforce the law if required."
The protest organised by Scotland Against Lockdown encouraged people to gather outside in Edinburgh to protest 'masks, lockdowns and social distancing.'
Scotland Against Lockdown wrote on Facebook: "With the threats of more lockdowns we must ensure we stand up for those who are losing their lives due to lack of treatment, losing their businesses, their jobs, for those in care homes, the children being masked and socially distanced in schools.
"When do we say enough is enough and put a stop to this? With the the threat of a 'circuit breaker' looming, that time is now."
Yesterday Police Scotland warned the protesters off, saying: "Police Scotland is urging people not to gather for a planned demonstration near the Scottish Parliament building in Edinburgh tomorrow (Sat) against the ongoing coronavirus restrictions."
Superintendent David Robertson, of Edinburgh Division, added: "We are aware of a proposed demonstration in Edinburgh in relation to the ongoing restrictions in place to help prevent the spread of coronavirus and save lives.
“Anyone thinking of taking part is strongly urged to find alternative ways to protest rather than attending mass gatherings, for example through digital means.
"Police Scotland will have a proportionate and appropriate response should this event go ahead and will act decisively to enforce the law if required.
“We are asking people to take personal responsibility to do the right thing and remember the purpose of these measures is to aid the collective effort to stay safe, protect others and save lives by preventing the virus from spreading."
