A police force and its police and crime commissioner have released a message calling for unity following the violent disorder seen in the country over the past week.

Wiltshire Police and the county’s Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson are urging people to “stick together and stay united”.

The force explained there is a lot of misinformation being spread, for example on social media.

Deputy Chief Constable Craig Dibdin said: “These criminals do not speak for our communities, and no one should ever have to fall victim to hate crime.”

Wiltshire Police said nationally there are 130 extra units in place, which means almost 4,000 extra public order trained officers to deploy across the county.

All forces are in daily contact, sharing information about any potential for disorder and how they can share resources.

Mr Dibdin said: “We are committed to keeping you safe – we will not tolerate any attempts at division.

“We will facilitate peaceful and lawful protest, but we will not tolerate any disorder or behaviour which negatively affects the safety of our communities.”

Explaining that misinformation and hatred is circulating about the violence, he has reminded people to look to trusted sources of information.

“We know there will be members of the community who are feeling frightened and marginalised at this time,” he said.

“We are here for you, and we are committed to keeping you safe.”

Mr Wilkinson described rioting seen across the country as “deeply upsetting” and “inexcusable.”

Adding that he hopes there will be “swift justice” for those who have broken the law, he said: “No-one should be left feeling fearful and frightened that they may be targeted because of their ethnicity.”

Mr Wilkinson wants to focus on enforcing law and ensuring safety at the moment, but said there will “come a time” to understand the “root causes” of the disorders.