Police are prepared to "take action" if protesters who gathered in Bristol this evening (Tuesday, March 23) do not disperse.
Campaigners descended on College Green to show their solidarity with travellers, who they claim are being unfairly targeted by the Government's planned Police and Crime Bill.
UPDATE: Follow live updates as riot police move in to disperse the crowds
A poster for the event reads: "We want to show solidarity with travellers who are targeted by this bill that will criminalise trespass with intention to reside.
"We also stand in defiance with other groups under threat including squatters, rough sleepers, protesters, hunt saboteurs, van dwellers, ravers, boaters..."
In response to the demonstration, at which some people have erected tents, Avon and Somerset Police posted an official statement on the force's Twitter account.
Chief Superintendent Claire Armes said: "Officers are in attendance at a protest involving around 130 people on College Green in Bristol this evening.
"They are engaging with those already there and asking them to leave, as well as deterring other people from joining.
"Gatherings like this pose a significant health risk as we remain firmly in the midst of a pandemic. On the day we're all those who have lost their lives to COVID-19 in the last year, we continue to ask people to stay at home.
"We'll continue to engage with those attending but all necessary and proportionate enforcement action will be taken."
