SOME disruption is expected tomorrow when anti-vaccination protestors are expected to take to the streets.

The protest is set to take place in York city centre on Saturday, with people gathering at midday.

Some roads will be closed and shopkeepers have been warned there may be some challenge to current laws in relation to mask wearing in shops.

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North Yorkshire Police Assistant Chief Constable Mark Pannone said: "Fortunately we are very experienced at managing demonstrations and large scale events in the region and have a number of resources to hand to ensure everything runs smoothly.

"Officers will be patrolling and engaging with both protestors and members of the public, so that feeling of safety and security is maintained for everyone in the city.

"I understand that residents and business owners may be concerned about the activity and the impact it may have on a busy Saturday afternoon, a few weeks before Christmas.

"That’s why there will be an increased and visible police presence, to minimise disruption, ensure public safety at all times and to enable the city centre to return to normal as soon as possible once the protest has ended.

“Everyone has the right to voice their opinion. Lawful peaceful protest is a key part of UK democracy and a right which police uphold and facilitate. I would ask that both residents and demonstrators respect these rights and each other’s opinions, so that the protest can take place in a peaceful manner without any incident."

North Yorkshire Police officers and staff from City of York Council say they are working together to facilitate a peaceful protest. 

The protest will involve a march through the city, which will start and end at York Minster, and is due to start at 1pm.

A temporary traffic order will be in place 1.30pm to 3.30pm to minimise disruption during the protest march.

The route of the march will include the following streets:

Deangate

Aldwark

Stonebow

Colliergate

Low Petergate

Stonegate

The march will then head back along:

Davygate

Parliament Street

High Ousegate

Spurriergate

Coney Street

St Helen’s Square

Blake Street

Duncombe Place

Police are warning visitors and residents that footpaths and streets could become congested and access to certain areas may be limited at times.

On the day of the demonstration North Yorkshire Police and the City of York Council will be sharing updates and information via their Twitter and Facebook accounts. To keep up to date, follow the hashtag #YorkDemo

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