VIOLENT rioters are not welcome in the North East and will “face the full force of the law”, a police force has warned.

Northumbria Police has promised a “robust” response to protect communities from the threat of more disorder, after a week of unrest across the nation following the fatal stabbing of three young girls in Southport.

READ MORE: Violent riots condemned by North East mayor

After the distressing scenes of violence in Sunderland and elsewhere over recent days, there have been concerns about further far-right demonstrations that the region’s leaders have acknowledged are leaving Muslim communities in particular fearful of being targeted by anti-immigrant mobs.

Newcastle MP Chi Onwurah called on Northumbria Police to ensure the city does not witness the same kind of disorder that hit Wearside and Middlesbrough, while Newcastle City Council leader Nick Kemp pledged that the city will be “open for business” this weekend.

Durham Constabulary put a dispersal order in place in Durham city centre on Tuesday (August 6) following reports of possible disorder, while a potential demonstration in Newcastle city centre this Saturday, August 10 has also been highlighted – on a day when Newcastle United’s men’s and women’s teams are scheduled to play in pre-season matches at St James’ Park.

Northumbria Police confirmed to the Local Democracy Reporting Service that it has cancelled officers’ days off and was redeploying staff to ensure there is a visible police presence on the streets.

Earlier on Tuesday, a fourth person was convicted in court after being involved in the Sunderland riot on August 2.

Bradley Makin, 21, pleaded guilty to violent disorder, as well as possession of cocaine and heroin, at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court.

Assistant Chief Constable Andrew Hill, of Northumbria Police, said: “We are aware of potential protest activity to take place in our region in the coming days. The right to lawful protest is a key part of any democracy, however, we will not accept people using them as a means to commit crime.

“A robust policing presence has been stood up. Officer rest days have been cancelled and resources redeployed to ensure officers are out and visible in our communities to keep you safe.

“We have incredibly close-knit communities. This is just one of the reasons which makes our region such a special place to live, work and visit.

“We know there will be members of the community who are feeling frightened and marginalised at this time. We are here for you and we are committed to keeping you safe. These criminals do not speak for our communities.

“As you will have seen, a number of arrests have been made and people swiftly convicted following the disorder in Sunderland last week. They are likely to receive considerable sentences.

“This should act as a warning to anyone with the intention of causing any further disorder – you will face the full force of the law. You are not welcome in our region.”