Clashes have broken out in Liverpool this afternoon at an English Defence League rally in the heart of the city.

Police made 12 arrests and used public order legislation to disperse demonstrators amid ugly scenes.

Supporters of the far-right group scuffled with anti-fascists close to Liverpool Lime Street Station.

A force spokesman said approximately 140 people attended the EDL demonstration while more than 600 were involved in the anti-fascist counter-protest.

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A shirtless supporter of the far-right group, carrying a beer can, is seen shouting at the EDL demonstration this afternoon

A large police operation has been launched in the heart of the city to keep rival groups apart

Darts and flares were fired in the clashes, and witnesses recounted seeing bottles thrown.

Deputy Chief Constable Carl Foulkes said: 'Following a number of arrests for public order offences and increasing animosity between both groups the decision was made to disperse those involved in the EDL procession in the interests of the safety of those working, living and visiting the city centre.

'At some points members of the left wing were seen to throw darts, and flares were also activated.

A woman in a black hoodie is seen being restrained by officers in Liverpool this afternoon

Rival groups were kept apart by large groups of police officers in Liverpool city centre today

'The safety of the public is paramount and due to the rising tensions between both groups the decision was made to halt the procession using Section 12 of the Public Order Act.'

A force spokesman said 12 people were arrested on suspicion of offences under the Public Order Act.

The march was brought to a standstill outside Lime Street train station as anti-fascist protesters sat in the middle of the road.

The EDL group was moved to the loading bay of Lime Street station at about 3pm.

A counter demonstration by anti-fascists has also been held in the city, with signs branding the EDL 'Nazis'

A heavy police presence moved the EDL demonstrators after the anti-fascist contingent gathered and chanted 'Nazi scum, off our streets'

Police said demonstrators were escorted from there on to trains and out of the city.

Mr Foulkes said officers from Lancashire, Cumbria, Cheshire and North Wales forces, as well as British Transport Police, were involved in the police operations.

He added: 'I would like to thank members of the public and businesses in the city centre for their patience as this matter was dealt with.'

A heavy police presence moved the EDL demonstrators after the anti-fascist contingent gathered and chanted 'Nazi scum, off our streets'.

The city's deputy mayor, Ann O'Byrne, tweeted: 'A great turnout at Lime Street to protest against the EDL attempting to march in Liverpool. Facists and racists are not welcome in our city.'