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In Pictures: Thousands take to London streets in rival protests

Ukip’s march against Theresa May’s Brexit deal was countered by anti-fascist protesters.

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Thousands of people have turned out for two rival protest marches in central London.

Ukip organised a “Brexit Betrayal” march against Theresa May’s Withdrawal Deal, which included leader Gerard Batten and the party’s new adviser Tommy Robinson. The the former English Defence League leader is also known as Stephen Yaxley-Lennon.

Their march was countered by an anti-fascist demonstration organised by Stand Up To Racism.

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Tommy Robinson, Ukip’s new adviser, was on the march (Gareth Fuller/PA)

— Sam Blewett (@BlewettSam) December 9, 2018

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Robinson was surrounded by supporters and Ukip and Union flags (Gareth Fuller/PA)
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Theresa May was branded a traitor by many on the march (Gareth Fuller/PA)
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The protesters are happy for the UK to crash out of the EU without a deal (Gareth Fuller/PA)

But there was also a counter-demonstration that was bigger than the Brexit march.

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The march accused Robinson of racism and creating division (Victoria Jones/PA)
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The counter demonstration had larger numbers (Victoria Jones/PA)
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Signs celebrating diversity were also held aloft (Victoria Jones/PA)

Despite efforts to keep the two groups of protesters apart, clashes did break out.

Rival protesters clash in Trafalgar Square
Rival protesters clash in Trafalgar Square (Victoria Jones/PA)
Clashes break out
Officers were quick to clamp down on any skirmishes (Victoria Jones/PA)
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