BBCThousands of people who gathered in the centre of Bristol have been thanked for their “exemplary behaviour” following a week of disruption.
The anti-racism demonstration was organised after it was rumoured an immigration lawyer’s premises would be targeted by far-right protesters.
Bristol Police Cdr Supt Mark Runacres added that the vast majority of those on West Street had shown “patience and generosity” to his officers.
However, one man was arrested after a brick was thrown at a police vehicle during the rally.
It was feared that Bristol could see a repeat of Saturday’s violent disorder, in which far-right protesters clashed with counter-protesters in the city centre and targeted a hotel housing asylum seekers.
Seventeen people have been arrested so far in connection with Saturday’s disorder, with three men since being charged.
Of the anti-racism demonstration last night, Cdr Supt Runacres said: “We know our communities were worried about what might happen but the vast majority of people displayed exemplary behaviour.
“I’m extremely grateful for the assistance we’ve had from community and business leaders both in the lead up to, and during, tonight’s operation. Their support has been invaluable.
“I’d also like to highlight the patience and generosity shown to my officers by local people and businesses. One café brought out hot drinks which were hugely appreciated.”
He added that there were no acts of violence or damage to the street or surrounding businesses, describing the throwing of the bottle and brick as “the only disappointing moment we dealt with”.
Around 250 police officers were on duty as the crowds gathered, with a “visible presence” maintained through the night in the Old Market area.
“Some people did leave the Old Market area and head towards the city centre and at least one firework was set off in Castle Park but this group did not cause any significant issues,” Cdr Supt Runacres added.
“Policing operations like this are always challenging due to the huge number of people involved and so I’m really pleased with how tonight’s has gone.”
Speaking on Thursday morning in Old Market, as boards began to be taken down from shopfronts, one woman who did not want to be identified told Radio Bristol: “I’m just very, very proud of our little community, they did stunningly well,” adding that the night had been “overwhelmingly peaceful”.
Another woman, who also asked not to be named, said: “We all know that Bristol is very open-minded, very welcoming. There are parts [of the city] that really need more support and are struggling still, but I think overwhelmingly it is a really supporting community.”
