An advertised far-right protest in Peterborough on Wednesday (August 7) failed to gather any momentum.

Hundreds of counter protesters took to the streets of Lincoln Road in response to social media posts claiming Peterborough had been 'selected' as a location for a far-right rally, but only to protest peacefully. 

Smart Immigration Services in Laxton House on 191 Lincoln Road appeared on a list circulated on social media which appears to have been drawn up by right-wing extremists. 

The list featured a series of possible locations for far-right demonstrations around the country including several cities. 

Police were on scene throughout the evening and briefly closed a small section of Lincoln Road but the majority of demonstrators remained peaceful. 

A police spokesperson confirmed there were no reports of disorder, adding: "There was a peaceful protest with no arrests, no injuries and positive community engagement."

Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, last night, MP for Peterborough Andrew Pakes said: "Hate doesn’t get to win.

"We are a better country because of the collective compassion we stand for. 

"Civic pride, public service and community."

A number of businesses and charities in the city centre closed early on Wednesday due to fears of unrest following news that Peterborough had been advertised as a site for far-right protest. 

In a Facebook post, Peterborough Soup Kitchen said it had made the 'tough' decision to suspend it's usual Wednesday night service. 

Meanwhile, NCT Birth, Feeding and You, a jointly commissioned service by Peterborough City Council and Cambridgeshire County Community Council to provide community infant feeding, was forced to cancel it's picnic in Central Park.

Cambridgeshire Police had earlier urged residents to be cautious about what they read on social media following the recent spread of misinformation online. 

Superintendent Robin Sissons said: “We understand these national incidents are of concern to our community and, as always, we will continue to work hard understanding those concerns and to reassure people. We have been engaging with community leaders over recent days and we have increased patrols in the county.

"We remain united in Cambridgeshire, and we are very proud of the rich diversity of our county.

"We encourage everyone to be cautious about what they read on social media.

He added: "We have had no incidents or protest activity in Cambridgeshire, despite misinformation stating the contrary on social media. While this remains the case, I would urge people to continue business as usual, but remain vigilant and if you see or hear anything that concerns you then please contact the police."

Leader of the Green Party Group on Peterborough City Council, Cllr Nicola Day, added: "Proud of Peterborough today.

"Our local community came out in numbers in an anti racism/ anti fascism unified counter demonstration.

"Peaceful, calm and felt very comfortable to be there and get home safely. Well done everyone."