Two opposing demonstrations held in Newcastle city centre this afternoon passed off without major incident, police said.

It is estimated that between 1,500 and 2,000 people took part in the far right English Defence League march and around 350 to 400 people in the counter demonstration by anti-fascist Newcastle Unites.

Up to 1,000 police officers kept the two sides apart and watched over the two demonstrations.

Newcastle Chief Superintendent Gary Calvert said: "I am pleased this protest passed off without major incident. Disruption was kept to a minimum and we are grateful for the support we received from local communities.

"There were a number of arrests over the course of the day, mainly to do with alcohol or to prevent public order offences, however the vast majority of those taking part were well behaved.

"Most of the arrests took place before the protests started and were part of a proactive strategy by police to avoid disorder and to minimise disruption.

"Extra officers will continue to be in the city for what is a busy weekend for Newcastle."

The two groups were at one point held 100 yards apart - the EDL in the Bigg Market - by lines of riot police as city centre traffic was brought to a halt.

Missiles, including cans, were exchanged between the two groups.

Banners from Bournemouth, Bristol and Teesside could be seen among the EDL marchers who had originally arranged the demonstration to protest at plans to open a Muslim School in Benwell Towers, formerly used by the BBC to film the children's tv series, Byker Grove.

Originally just 300 were expected but following the  death of soldier Lee Rigby, 25, outside his Woolwich barracks in London on Wednesday, the EDL issued a rallying call to supporters.

Earlier today Northumbria Police said it hads already arrested three people - two from Gateshead and one from Stockton - on suspicion of posting racist tweets.