Police have announced a clampdown on far-right protest marches planned through central London this weekend in order to prevent “violence, disorder and disruption”.

Both the EDL and Britain First are preparing to take to the streets on Saturday following last week’s terror attack on Westminster by knifeman Khalid Masood.

But the groups, who face a counter demo from Unite Against Fascism (UAF) on the same day, have been issued strict regulations by the Met.

They must leave at set times and follow exact routes, obeying the instructions of police officers throughout.

Participants can only join and leave the two marches at the designated start and finish point, while both rallies must finish by 3pm.

Chief Superintendent Catherine Roper warned that any protesters who break the conditions imposed under Section 12 and 14 of the Public Order Act face arrest.

She said: "The right to protest is a fundamental right in our democratic society, but this right must be balanced against the right of people to go about their day without fear of violence, disorder or disruption.

"Experience has shown us that when groups with conflicting views come together it can create tension and disorder, not just on the day itself but in the longer term.

"If you want to protest on Saturday we ask that you do so peacefully, no matter what your view. We will adopt a robust arrest policy on anyone who attends and is intent on violence and disorder, or is in breach of these conditions."

Fewer than 100 supporters are registered as attending the EDL protest, which will set off from Trafalgar Square towards the Victoria Embankment.

Britain First's march begins at Charing Cross station.

The UAF counter protest is due to take place at Victoria Embankment as police aim to keep the two groups apart.

The event page states: “UAF calls on anti fascists to join us in mass opposition to the fascists - our unity is our strength.”