Police are planning a huge security operation to counter demonstration by the far-right EDL in Manchester on Saturday.

Up to 400 members of the EDL and some anti-fascist demonstrators are expected to face off in Albert Square from 1.30pm.

However a formal rally organised by the Unite Against Fascism group, will take place in Piccadilly Gardens, well away from the far-right event.

Nonetheless, hundreds of police including specialist riot officers will be stationed in and around Albert Square, which will be fenced off into two sections to in a bid to keep any opposing factions apart.

Members of the EDL are expected to meet up at Walkabout bar before making their way to Albert Square later.

Meanwhile a joint letter from faith, community and civic leaders urged Mancunians to ‘simply ignore’ the English Defence League protest.

In the letter, published in the M.E.N. today and signed by Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd, the Bishop of Manchester Rt Revd Dr David Walker, Manchester Central MP Lucy Powell, Manchester Council Leader Sir Richard Leese and 31 others, the EDL are slammed for ‘values of hatred and division’.

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Chief Superintendent John O’Hare said: “I want to reassure residents, visitors and businesses in the city centre that GMP and Manchester Council will work with organisers and build upon previous experiences to ensure any demonstration passes peacefully with minimum disruption to the local community and city centre economy.”

He warned roads would be closed and conceded there would be ‘some disruption’

He added: “Greater Manchester Police respects everyone’s fundamental human right to a peaceful protest.

"We understand that emotions will run high where there will be individuals with polarised views and we will do everything possible to get the balance right.

"However the right to free speech and protest comes with a responsibly and I must stress that anyone found to behaving in an intimidating or criminal manner will be dealt with accordingly.

“There will be an increased police presence in Manchester city centre and as a force GMP is extremely experienced at successfully managing similar protests.

"We and our partners have a strong reputation of working well with the organisers of protests to minimise the risk of disorder and harm to our communities.

“We will continue work with Manchester Council, the community and any protest group to ensure any peaceful protest is facilitated.”

The Greater Manchester United Against Fascism group say they have organised a peaceful rally at 12noon in Piccadilly Gardens to celebrate multi-cultural Manchester, which will be followed by a march through the city centre.