Police prepare for Scottish Defence League march in Edinburgh

Police in Edinburgh said "public safety" was a priority as they prepared for a march by the far-right Scottish Defence League (SDL).

The SDL are to march along Regent Road to St Andrew's House, the administrative home of the Scottish government, from 13:00.

A march and rally in opposition to the SDL will be held by a group called United Against Fascism.

They will gather at the Grassmarket and also march to St Andrew's House.

United Against Fascism will pass through Victoria Street, George IV Bridge, High Street, North Bridge and into Waterloo Place before reaching St Andrew's House in Regent Road, on the southern flank of Calton Hill.

In September a rally by the SDL in Edinburgh passed off without incident and without any arrests.

Lothian and Borders Police said it had undertaken "a significant amount of planning and a detailed policing plan" ahead of the marches.

A Lothian and Borders Police spokeswoman said: "The city is basking in glorious sunshine and Lothian and Borders Police aim to keep disruption to a minimum so that the general public can go about their daily business and enjoy the lovely weather.

"Our priorities will be to maintain public safety, minimise disruption to public order and facilitate the rights of freedom of assembly and speech.

"Lothian and Borders Police will also provide an appropriate and proportionate response to any anti-social behaviour and criminal activity, bringing those responsible to justice."