The bishop of Leicester, Rt Rev Martyn Snow has appealed for calm following disturbances in Leicester.

Clashes in the city have been taking place since late August following a cricket match between India and Pakistan.

Footage online showed hundreds of people marching in the streets of East Leicester wearing masks and balaclavas – at least 27 have been arrested and charged with public offence orders.

Rt Rev Martyn took to Twitter to share his concern for the situation: “During this period of national mourning, I have held off commenting on the worrying events which have taken place in Leicester.

“This is a city that has always prided itself in strong community relations.”

He continued: “We do not always see eye-to-eye, but have always found productive ways of handling our disagreements. We are united in our desire for there to be peace in our city, and for everyone to feel safe and be able to go about their lawful business.

“We appeal for calm and commit ourselves to continue supporting healthy disagreement, being good neighbours to those who have different opinions in order to maintain the peaceful communities we have long been proud of in this city."

Leicester MP Claudia Webbe also called for calm and urged people on the streets to go home.

"Like many Leicester East residents, I am concerned by ongoing reports of 'hate-filled clashes', including those which emerged today.

"It is vital that we work together to share the message of tolerance so that we can bring our communities together.

"This is a time for cool heads. I implore everyone to go home."