FOUR people have been arrested following protest activity in Dorset.

Police have been reviewing footage from the protests in Weymouth and Bournemouth and are building evidence to act against those reported to be involved in criminal activity.

As part of enquiries into the protests in Bournemouth town centre on the evening of Wednesday, August 7, a 43-year-old woman from Bournemouth who was arrested was later charged with assault and criminal damage.

She appeared at Poole Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, August 10, and is next due to appear at the same court on Wednesday, August 28.

In relation to the protest activity at Weymouth Esplanade on Sunday, August 4, a 47-year-old man from Bournemouth was arrested and charged with violent disorder and assault by beating of an emergency worker.

He is due to appear at Poole Magistrates’ Court today.

A further arrest was made of a 36-year-old man from Weymouth, who was subsequently charged with violent disorder and is also due to appear at Poole Magistrates’ Court on today.

Also, a 19-year-old man from Poole was arrested on suspicion of racially or religiously aggravated fear or provocation of violence.

He has been released on police bail as further enquiries into the matter are conducted.

Assistant chief constable Mark Callaghan, of Dorset Police, said: “We continue to relentlessly investigate any reported crime and disorder linked to the recent protest activity and take action against those suspected of being involved.

“We have been clear that we will not tolerate any reported violence, disorder or hate crime in our communities, and we will work with victims and community leaders from all areas to ensure victims are supported and robust action is taken.”