Police have stated they are 'confident no march is planned' by the English Defense League from Meadowhall on Saturday.
Rumours spread through social media this week that EDL would march through Attercliffe and Pitsmoor, and that local shops would be closed. Details later emerged that the EDL actually plan to meet in the city centre.
City wide campaign group One City Many Cultures, have organised an event in response, starting at 12noon at Barkers Pool, their facebook stated
“Celebrate and defend One Sheffield Many Cultures on Saturday 1st June in Barkers Pool from 12 noon. Please join us and spread the word about the peaceful gathering called by One Sheffield Many Cultures and Sheffield Unite Against Fascism.”
The Police released the following statement on their website:
"South Yorkshire Police are aware that the English Defence League (EDL) are seeking to place wreaths and hold a minutes silence at war memorials around the country in memory of Drummer Lee Rigby. Many of these are timed to coincide with lunchtime on Saturday. The key messages from the organisers are that these events will be peaceful and respectful.
"Events within the county are expected in Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield. No formal applications for any marches by the EDL have been received by SYP and there is no reliable information that any organised event will either take place or begin at Meadowhall Shopping Centre.
"A number of rumours and comments that have been made on social media have been assumed to be fact by many people and they are having a disproportionate negative impact on the community. SYP are aware of these rumours and are actively working to negate them wherever possible.
“The Force's advice to all of our communities is very much "business as usual”. Extra police resources will be available and on patrol to deal with any eventualities.
“Anyone with any information that may relate to tensions within the community, or any activity by any extremist group or their sympathisers should contact the police on the 101 number.”
Local Inspector Simon Leake told the Messenger there would be “enhanced neighbourhood policing across the neighbourhoods in the north east and east areas” on Saturday. He also said, “My advice to people is that they should go about their usual business and report anything that concerns them regarding Saturday's events to officers on the street or by calling 101, I will be around Saturday with my own team to reassure.”