"This has been an incredibly challenging day with thousands of people attending Manchester City Centre for the protest," he said.

"I understand that these events are very emotive and that tensions run high when there are polarised views and counter-protests.

"Our city has been through a lot over the last few weeks and I know there were people opposed to the event taking place.

"There have been eight arrests for public order offences, which is not uncommon for a demonstration of this size.

"It was pleasing to see that this protest did not stop the people of Manchester from going about their normal Sunday activities."