Dorset Police has issued a statement after BCP Council said it would temporarily take down the statue of Scouting founder Robert Baden-Powell on Poole Quay. 

Here's what they have said in full:

"We appreciate the community sensitivities in relation to specific statues and monuments across the county.

"Dorset Police is committed to preventing crime and disorder and working with our communities and partners to keep people safe. In relation to the Baden-Powell statue on Poole Quay we were contacted by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council to discuss concerns with this monument and the potential for other sites across the county during this difficult period.

"Our local officers were made aware of the situation and liaised with the council to understand the concerns and consider any threats to property. Our role is to review community information and intelligence and identify threats in order to provide guidance and support to our partners.

"In this case the Baden-Powell statue had been identified as a potential target and the local authority was made aware. The decision on whether to remove the statue was not one for the police and no advice was given to remove it. We appreciate the local council has a difficult decision, taking into account the various opposing views held by members of the public.

"We will continue to monitor intelligence and work with all of our partners to reduce crime, prevent disorder and ensure public safety."

The Daily Echo asked Dorset Police what advice or information was given to the council and if there was a direct threat for the safety of the statue and the force said there were no further details beyond what had been outlined in the statement.