Police have moved to dispel 'rumours' of protests planned in a North Yorkshire town this evening.

North Yorkshire Police responded as a 35-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of sending false communications in Northallerton on Wednesday, August 7.

In a statement on social media, North Yorkshire Police said: "Thank you for your ongoing support in these difficult times We are aware of rumours that have been circulating about planned protests in Northallerton today.

"We want to reassure you that we have intelligence-gathering systems in place and our current intelligence does not support these claims at this time.

"A 35-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of sending false communications and remains in custody for questioning.

"We want to reassure you that our officers are working hard to keep our communities safe, and you will see a visible police presence in the town this evening."

The statement added: "Disinformation is a huge driver of the appalling violence that is being experienced across the country in recent days, and we know a lot of those attending these acts of violence are doing so in direct response to what they’ve read online.

"We all have a part to play in this. Please pay special attention to what you read, share, and believe from online sources. We’d also urge you to not add to the spread of information that could contribute to community unrest.

"The people involved in this criminality across the country do not represent the views of our communities and it has been heartening to see people coming together to support each other and their local forces.

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"We continue to work closely with our partners and communities to provide reassurance and key information."

Thank you for your ongoing support and unity in these difficult times.

If you have any information or intelligence to share, please contact 101.