Counter protesters made a stand for peace in Newcastle tonight amid further fears of further violence across the North East tonight (August 7).

There were concerns up to 100 riots had been planned across the country for Wednesday night, including in the North East, after a week of violence.

According to reports, thousands of people gathered in Newcastle's West End, countering fears of far-right violence.(Image: North News)

Crowds held signs saying "we love our West End" and "Peace" as they congregated near the city's mosques.

Othes had placards showing an NUFC strip saying "Newcastle loves black and white", and another reading "reject racism".

Dispersal orders were in place in towns across the region with police stepping up their efforts to nip riots in the bud.(Image: North News)

Shops in Newcastle's West had been boarded up earlier on Thursday, but thankfully efforts to protect businesses proved unnecessary.

North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said the display in the city made her proud of the region.

She said in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter): "Love over hate. Unity over divison. Kindness over intimidation. Racism has no place in our North East.(Image: North News)

"This is the message sent to rioters and thugs and the violent far right from Newcastle tonight. That's our North East. That's why I am so proud."

In Durham crowds were almost non-existent while planned activity in Bishop Auckland ended with as many police present as protesters.

In Middlesbrough one man was arrested for failing to remove a face covering after being asked by police. Meanwhile Sunderland was said to be like a ghost town in areas, in stark contrast to scenes there last Friday (August 2).

(Image: North News)

(Image: North News)