Hertfordshire's Police and Crime Commissioner has sought to reassure residents over growing fears of far-right violence.

Violent anti-immigration demonstrations have hit several UK towns and cities in the last week, with social media misinformation rife.

The rioting comes after the killings of three young girls in Stockport.

On Wednesday (August 7) some businesses in Hertfordshire opted to close early after rumours of planned riots in the county, particularly fears in Stevenage and Hemel Hempstead.

While Wednesday passed without incident, tensions remain high and Jonathan Ash-Edwards has addressed the ugly scenes of the last 10 days.

He said: “The incidents of violent disorder we have seen in parts of the UK in the last week have been shocking and should be condemned unreservedly. There is never any place for violence or hatred.

“Hertfordshire is a safe county and it is essential that we keep it that way so people can go about their daily business without fear. I would urge residents to be very cautious about the veracity of rumours that circulate on social media."

Wednesday's planned demonstrations across the country largely passed without incident after counter-protestors outnumbered the far-right in many locations.

But the situation remains precarious, with the PCC saying: “I am in regular contact with the Chief Constable and he has assured me that the situation is being fully monitored and adequate policing resources are in place to reassure communities.

“The substantial jail sentences handed down to offenders in the north of England send a strong message that those involved in violence and public disorder will be held to account and face the consequences.

“I would like to thank our police officers who, like every day, are working hard to keep Hertfordshire safe”.