Hundreds of protesters gathered in central Manchester on Sunday to oppose the national lockdown in England. People started to congregate in Piccadilly Gardens from around 1pm, with police saying there were more than 600 attending at the protest’s height. Social media footage showed hundreds of people, many of them carrying placards, protesting against the government’s decision to impose a second shutdown. There appeared to be little social distancing and few protesters were wearing masks as they chanted “rise up” and “freedom”. Police strongly condemned the protest, saying that several officers were injured and warning those responsible they would “face justice”. They said there were four arrests. Mabs Hussain, assistant chief constable with Greater Manchester police, said: “I would like to use this opportunity to publicly condemn this gathering. Both the organisers and attendees were irresponsible – increasing demand on police who are also responding to calls regarding serious incidents and people who are in immediate danger across Greater Manchester. “Before and during this gathering, officers followed guidance to engage with the organiser and attendees, explain the restrictions and encourage compliance. Unfortunately, the encouragement was ignored, which resulted in officers progressing to enforcement. “Under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, officers authorised a section 34 dispersal order. They also arrested four people on suspicion of public order offences and issued 24 £200 fixed penalty notices (FPNs). Enquiries are ongoing to also issue an FPN to the organiser. “Enquiries have established that one group of attendees travelled to Greater Manchester from Cumbria via coach. The driver and the company they work for have both been reported to the relevant industry regulator. “Whilst responding to this gathering, a number of officers were injured. This is unacceptable behaviour towards officers who were simply doing their job and protecting people. Investigators will now work to identify those responsible and ensure they face justice.” Pat Karney, Manchester city council’s spokesman, also condemned protesters. “I can completely condemn this disgraceful gathering in Piccadilly Gardens. These people should check out the ambulances going in and out of our hospitals at the moment to see the massive health crisis we are all facing,” he said. “If you disagree with the restrictions, write to your MP but don’t endanger people’s health.”