The far-right nationalist group announced they intended to gather in Rochdale town centre this afternoon, according to reports on social media.

GMP confirmed they were aware of the posts and a police operation was in force if the protest takes place.

The group last held an protest in Liverpool in February, after initially stating it would be taking place in Manchester in an attempt to throw the police a ‘red herring.’

Violent scenes erupted in Liverpool town centre after missiles, smoke bomb and bottles were hurled by protesters.

Scuffles broke out after a number of the group broke through a police cordon and fought with the anti-fascists.

Reporter Alexandra Rucki is in Rochdale following the situation