POLICE have announced the route of the upcoming English Defence League (EDL) march in the city.

The far-right group will start the march in Angel Place, Worcester, and end up in Cornmarket car park, where speeches will be held.

West Mercia Police has also granted permission for a counter protest in Silver Street car park.

Both car parks will be closed from 6pm on Friday until the end of the demonstrations at around 5pm on Saturday.

The EDL intends to protest over plans to build a £3million mosque in Worcester, although opponents say the group is not welcome in the city.

Chief Superintendent Mark Travis, of West Mercia Police, said: "We are aware of, and understand, the concerns amongst our local communities surrounding the planned demonstrations.

"However, I am confident we have the appropriate resources in place to manage such peaceful protests and the safety of all involved.

"I can assure people in Worcester that police are working with other agencies and partners and we are prepared for this event.

"Protecting our communities and businesses from harm remains our absolute focus.

“We will continue to constantly monitor and review the intelligence, including community intelligence and concerns, surrounding the planned event.

"The right to peacefully protest is a fundamental democratic right and our role is to prevent any crime and disorder and ensure a proportionate policing response is put in place. The situation will be continually monitored."

There may be some temporary road closures during the demonstrations.

The EDL march is expected to start at 1.30pm on Saturday.