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A senior police chief has said there is “no information” to suggest any “planned disorder” is being arranged in Gwent, amid far-right riots over the border in England.

Chief Superintendent Leanne Brustad, of Gwent Police, said the serious disorder in recent days has “left members of our communities feeling concerned” – and said the force has “prepared accordingly should anything happen in our area”.

Rioting came in the aftermath of the horrific attack in Southport on July 29, in which three young girls were killed and numerous others injured in a stabbing attack. False information spread on social media following the attack, invoking Islamophobic attacks on mosques and hotels housing asylum seekers.

Far-right riots have broken out in cities and towns across England, as well as in Belfast, over the last week.

Hundreds of arrests have been made, with jail sentences already being handed out to rioters.

CS Brustad said: “We are monitoring information at a local and national level around possible disruption and will continue to have a robust policing response in place to tackle possible disorder.  

“Our officers are on patrol to provide a visible presence in our communities, particularly among those who are feeling vulnerable at this time.  

“We continue to support our communities and are in regular conversations to offer advice, listen to their concerns and keep everyone safe.”

She continued: “We are aware of speculation on social media and we would like to be clear that there is no information to corroborate any planned disorder in our area at this time.”

CS Brustad urged people thinking of rioting to “please think twice about what you read, share and believe from online sources”

She added: “There are a lot of motivations for why people may be sharing information so be critical and if in doubt, look to trusted voices such as the police and community leaders. 

“We stand with our communities against division and hatred.”

Anyone with information regarding pre-planned disorder or criminal behaviour can contact Gwent Police on 101, or through direct message on social media.

Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.