THE Tyne Valley’s first anti-racism peaceful demonstration will take place on Saturday.

The event, called Hexham Against Racism Peaceful Demonstration, will take place at Tyne Green on Saturday at 2pm.

Organisers said a peaceful demonstration had been organised in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement.

The event has been set up with the aim of 'supporting BAME members of our community with music, public speakers and a march through Hexham following a planned route, recommended social distancing guidelines and with the support of Northumbria Police,' organisers said.

The Hexham Against Racism group was formed after it was claimed that ‘pockets of racism exist in Tynedale’.

One of the organisers of the demonstration said: “This is not a protest, but a positive show of solidarity with the support of the local police.

“Please feel free to come along, meet new people, engage in conversation and help us make positive steps toward addressing racial discrimination and inequality in Tynedale.”

Organisers had planned a procession through the town centre as part of the demonstration, but have since drawn back on the plans.

In an updated statement, organisers explained the change: “One of the primary reasons for this decision is also to keep the event safe and accessible for all and allow for proper social distancing.”