Video shows protester arrested at Brighton Sarah Everard vigil

Police had warned there would be “no exceptions” to the lockdown rules in Brighton.

There were plans to hold a demonstration in memory of the 33-year-old whose body was found earlier this week.

The protest had been set under the banner of “reclaim these streets”, but following police warnings, event organisers said the event was cancelled.

About 150 people still went to Valley Gardens, where a tree became the focal point for messages, protest placards, flowers and candles.

The focal point of the protest in Valley Gardens, Brighton. Scroll down for video

Demonstrators say the gathering was peaceful until police told them to leave the area.

Sussex Police said its approach was “consistent” with its approach to all gatherings held so far during the coronavirus crisis, where it is currently illegal to host or attend a gathering of more than two people outside.

Video shows the arrest being made in Brighton. Scroll down for video

Video footage shows the moment officers went into the crowd and made arrests.

Those attending chanted: “Let us meet.”

Then as a man was led away under arrest, the crowd chanted: “Shame on you”.

A man was seen being led away under arrest by officers.

There has been criticism of Sussex Police and of the Metropolitan Police for breaking up the vigils in Brighton and in Clapham, near where Sarah Everard was reported missing.

One protester branded the actions in Brighton on Saturday night as “shameful”.

But Sussex Police said: “We recognise the desire to come together at this time, to mourn the death of Sarah Everard in London and to make a statement on the issue of women’s safety, and we absolutely understand the importance of this message.

Sussex Police said those attending were warned to leave the area

“Everyone should feel safe to walk our streets and we hear that many of you do not.

“We acknowledge many women have experienced violence, abuse or harassment and this is not acceptable.

“Protecting our communities is a top priority for Sussex Police, and we will do what it takes to ensure you feel safe in the county where you live.

“However, we remain firmly in a public health emergency and the Covid-19 regulations continue to disallow large gatherings because of the continued, and very real, risks of the virus.

Police were called to the gathering at Valley Gardens, Brighton

“A High Court judgement on Friday (March 12) ruled planned vigils would not be an exception to the government’s legislation around gatherings during the national lockdown.

“We are grateful to everyone who has found a safe and alternative way to express their feelings at this difficult and emotional time.”

Many people held private individual actions to highlight their concerns about men’s violence towards women, while vigil organisers who had cancelled an event in Worthing said they would hold a vigil after the lockdown rules have been eased.

Sussex Police confirmed one arrest was made, and eight people were issued with fines for breaching coronavirus lockdown rules.