Video shows crowds observing social distancing during BLM protest in Hastings

The peaceful demonstration took place in Alexandra Park between 1pm and 2pm on Sunday (June 7).

Organisers of the event invited everyone who wanted to ‘promote love, unity and solidarity against racism in all forms’.

During the day, the crowds heard from a mix of speakers and performers as they protested peacefully.

In the days before the event took place, Hastings Police asked all those attending to observe social distancing measures due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Organisers responded saying they appreciated the concern for public safety and had set up measures to ensure everyone could keep their distance at the event.

Pictures and video from Sunday’s event showed hundreds of people socially distancing as they sat peacefully at Alexandra Park, applauding the range of speakers.

The social distancing was also monitored by a large team of volunteer stewards, according to event organisers.

Sunday’s protest in Hastings was one of a number of protests taking place across the UK over the weekend – with a similarly peaceful protest taking place in Worthing on Saturday.

Despite issues in London, there were no reports of unrest in Hastings during Sunday’s event.

The protests started in the US after the death of African-American George Floyd, in Minneapolis on May 25.

Former police officer Derek Chauvin has been charged with second-degree murder, according to court documents, while three other officers have been charged with counts of aiding and abetting murder.

Mr Floyd’s death has sparked protests in the US and across the world against racism and police killings of unarmed black people.