The leader of Brighton and Hove City Council has said police “will come down hard” on anyone taking part in disorder in the city.

Bella Sankey's statement comes amid rumours of planned protests across Sussex, the details of which The Argus has chosen not to publicise.

Disorder has lasted for a week since fatal stabbings in Southport, with unrest witnessed across England and in parts of Northern Ireland.

Police officers were injured during “sustained violence” in Plymouth on Monday, while similar trouble on the streets of Darlington saw officers pelted with bricks.

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Sussex Police has said its officers are "experienced" in public order incidents and have plans in place to combat violent disorder.

Assistant Chief Constable Paul Court said that racist, criminal behaviour will not be tolerated and that potential rioters will be made to “regret their actions” if they take to the streets of Sussex.

The force also urged residents to report any concerns immediately.

Cllr Sankey said the council is working closely with the police and that “violent thuggery” has no place in the city.

“We are aware of growing public concern following the recent criminal disorder seen across the country, the unverified reports circulating about potential activity in the city and unsolicited leaflets being shared in some areas," she said.

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“I would like to reassure residents and visitors that the council is working closely with Sussex Police and other partners to identify any emerging concerns, and keep our residents, staff, community partners and businesses safe.

“We recognise the impact this unrest is causing to the lives of many people and that we are not all experiencing it in the same way, disproportionately harming our black, migrant and Muslim communities.

“Brighton and Hove will always be a place which prides itself on our inclusivity and being a place of sanctuary. Sussex Police will come down hard on anyone taking part in the type of disorder we have seen elsewhere in the country. Racism and violent thuggery have no place in our city.

“We will update residents further on any impact this may have on our local services, but in the meantime, I would like to encourage people to keep an eye on information from Sussex Police, stay vigilant and report any concerns or instances of hate crime to them by calling either 101, or 999 in an emergency.”