Arrests have been made after hundreds of people gathered in George Square yesterday to take part in two rival protests. 

A gathering, billed as a "Pro-UK Rally" on social media, was organised to take place near the Cenotaph on Saturday afternoon while a counter-protest was organised by Stand Up To Racism. 

(Image: Images by Gordon Terris, Newsquest)

The "Pro-UK Rally" was organised in the wake of riots in several towns and cities in England in July and August which saw supermarkets and libraries torched and shops looted and was publicised by far-right figures including Tommy Robinson. 

The disorder followed the tragic deaths of Bebe King (six), Elsie Dot Stancombe (seven) and Alice Dasilva Aguiar (nine) who were killed on Monday, July 29 in Southport while attending a Taylor Swift themed dance class. 

(Image: Images by Gordon Terris, Newsquest)

Now, Police Scotland have confirmed that two people were arrested following the action in Glasgow. 

The force said that both a 40-year-old man was arrested for a hate crime and a 20-year-old man was arrested for carrying an offensive weapon.

They added that enquiries are ongoing.

(Image: Images by Gordon Terris, Newsquest)

(Image: Images by Gordon Terris, Newsquest)

A spokesperson said: “A proportionate policing plan was in place for a planned protest in George Square, Glasgow, today.

"A 40-year-old man was arrested for a hate crime and a 20-year-old man was arrested for carrying an offensive weapon. Enquiries remain ongoing.

“Officers contained a small group of people to engage with them, maintain public safety and minimise disruption.

“Containment is an approved tactic used by highly trained officers where a breach of the peace is taking place or is reasonably thought to be imminent.”