The leader of Southampton City Council has urged calm ahead of protests planned in the city centre. 

Cllr Lorna Fielker has told those taking to the streets for protests or counter-protests to "do so lawfully and peacefully".

It comes as at least two protests appear to be planned in the city following the fatal stabbing of three children in Southport.

In a statement released by the authority, the council leader said: "Southampton has a long history of welcoming people from around the world and for being a city of Sanctuary. We reconfirmed that status last week.

READ MORE: Violent thugs told 'you're not welcome in Southampton' amid protests

“While I support the right to peaceful protest, I am disappointed that there is an anti-immigration demonstration scheduled to happen in Southampton and we will work with the Police to ensure that the event takes place without the violence and destruction seen elsewhere in the country.

"However, there is disinformation being shared on social media, with the clear intention to incite hate and increase tensions in local communities.

“This false and damaging information being peddled by right-wing racists elsewhere in the country can spread quickly encouraging people to jump on a bandwagon.

“We will continue to monitor the situation.

"However, anyone seeking to come to Southampton to whip up criminal, violent or antisocial behaviour is not welcome, and I urge anyone taking to the streets in protests or counter-protests to do so lawfully and peacefully.”