Sussex Police said their officers remain fully prepared for any potential incidents after unrest across the country.

The force said it is continuing to review a “vast amount” of online information to identify any emerging concerns in Sussex, including the potential for any unrest in Crawley.

Posts being shared on social media suggest both protesters and counter-protesters could clash at several locations across the town this evening.

Violent protests have been causing destruction across the country since the Southport stabbings in which three girls were killed last week.

Read more: Live updates as more protests expected in Sussex

There were concerns that disorder was going to spread to Brighton and Hastings on Wednesday night.

But in Brighton, counter-protesters massively outnumbered half a dozen anti-immigration protesters.

Some 2,000 people attended Queen's Road where a peaceful protest took place. There were no incidents of note and one man was arrested and then de-arrested.

In Hastings, around 400 people attended Cambridge Gardens where another peaceful protest took place. There were no incidents of note and no arrests.

The police force is now prepared in case protests happen in Crawley.

Read more: 'Do not do it': Police warning as more protests expected tonight in Sussex

“Additional and specialist police resources remain mobilised and ready to act wherever this may be required, and we encourage the public to go about their business in confidence that we are there to keep them safe,” a spokesman for Sussex Police said.

“There are targeted patrols in key areas across the county to provide a highly visible, reassuring presence and a key point of contact. Please speak to an officer or PCSO if you have any concerns.

“We understand that recent events have been particularly concerning for our Muslim communities and people of colour. Police and our partners are engaging with faith leaders and community groups across Sussex to provide reassurance and we encourage people to report issues or concerns, and any incidents of hate crime.

“With the breadth of information circulating online, we are urging the public to rely on trusted news sources and to challenge or report any misinformation to the relevant platforms.

“Sussex Police’s social media channels will continue to proactively publish any significant incidents, with details of our response and any advice.

“Please remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or concerns to us immediately online, via 101 or by calling 999 in an emergency, quoting Operation Skylark. “

Assistant Chief Constable Paul Court has issued a further warning to anyone planning on causing disorder.

“Across the country we have seen people trying to divide our communities met by powerful displays of unity and support,” he said.

“We stand alongside the residents and businesses of Sussex, to keep them safe and help everyone go about their lives in peace.

“I will reiterate the warning once again to anyone planning, or considering taking part in, disorder. It will not be tolerated, any incidents will be robustly countered and the consequences will be swift and costly.

“I would like to thank the communities of Sussex for their patience, support and understanding over the recent period, and ask for this to continue over the coming days.”