Black Lives Matter protests in Birmingham, Wolverhampton and Dudley have been praised for their peaceful nature with those involved also observing social distancing guidelines.

West Midlands Police estimate around 4,000 took part in the Birmingham event on Thursday, with a smaller number gathering in both Coronation gardens in Dudley and West Park in Wolverhampton yesterday. A spokesperson for the force said:

"The protesters were loud and passionate, and made their voices clearly heard, but there were no arrests and no disorder.

"We appreciate that the gatherings were much larger than is allowed by [social distancing] regulations, but we have consistently said that our approach is to engage, explain and encourage people, and we will only enforce the regulations when absolutely necessary.

Thanks to all those who attended our #BlackLivesMatterUK protest today in #Dudley and ensured a peaceful event. Thanks to the organiser who worked with us to ensure a safe event and that attendees observed social distancing. No disorder and no arrests - just how it should be 👍🏼

— Jason Anderson (@JAnderson_West) June 7, 2020

"We put in place a proportionate policing plan for this protest, which involved a small number of officers in place to engage with the protesters. We will continue to work with communities and those taking part in any future protests wherever possible to ensure people’s safety.

"West Midlands Police, and our colleagues around the country, stand alongside all those across the globe who are appalled and horrified by the way George Floyd lost his life."

People following proceedings on social media voiced their praise at the demeanour of those involved. 

Great to see protesting done the way it should be and as well as possible considering the circumstances. Well done Wolverhampton ✊🏻✊🏼✊🏽✊🏾✊🏿

— Reece Crooke (@Reeco7) June 7, 2020

Just ran past the memorial area in Dudley to see a #BlackLivesMattters protest!!! Stopped to clap for a minute. Proper nice to see so many folk out supporting it #Dudley #BlackLivesMatters

— Adam G (@_AG_83) June 7, 2020

West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson, said: “West Midlands Police have taken a sensible approach to facilitating peaceful protests. Members of my office, including my Deputy Commissioner oversaw the policing operation.

“This is a cause that I am very supportive of. I am pleased that the protest has concluded without incident.”