North East Mayor Kim McGuinness slams disorder as 'disgraceful'

In a statement she condemned the “appalling behaviour” seen in the last week and said it “will never represent us” in the North East.

In a direct plea to would-be rioters who may target minorities she said: “My message to them is simply – do not.”

It comes amid fears of further violence in the coming days after a week of riots across the UK, including in Hartlepool, Sunderland and Middlesbrough.

Kim McGuinness said: “Our North East is accepting, kind and proud – the appalling behaviour of a violent minority seen in the last few days will never represent us.

“I am aware of reports that far-right groups may further target our communities today and throughout this week. My message to them is simple – do not. These are not protests, they are not peaceful. You are not welcome.

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“The targeting of Muslim and minority communities is disgraceful. But in the North East we look after our neighbours and racism and prejudice will not be tolerated. If you chose to take part in violent disorder in our region there will be severe consequences.

“As your Major, I have been in contact with Downing Street and the Police about the national and regional response and in recent days, alongside council colleagues we’ve met with community and faith leaders and businesses in our region and will continue to do so in the coming days to provide reassurance that their concerns are being heard.

“What we have seen in our streets already has left many feeling scared, angry and upset. Right now I call for people not to act on those feelings negatively but to do so in peace and with kindness to all our communities firm in the knowledge that those taking part in this targeted, right wing violence and thuggery will face the full force of the law.”