Protesters who took part in two opposing rallies tonight have said why they turned out.

Nikki Walters from Southampton Action was one of the speakers at the beginning of the demonstration in East Park today with the Stand up to Racism march.

She told the Echo: "It’s fantastic to see well over 100 people turn out in Southampton this evening.

"We are here to show the fascists and people trying to terrorise our city that they are not welcome. Southampton does not tolerate hate."

READ MORE: Southampton: Closures and police patrols ahead of protests

Meanwhile, Dawn Thiselton, 59, was at the protest in Grosvenor Square waving an England flag.

Dawn ThiseltonDawn Thiselton (Image: Alex Shute)

She told the Echo she was born and raised in Southampton. She said: "I am definitely not a racist. I’m born and bred in this country and I believe in our country's honour.

"My son is a Royal Marine who has fought for this country.

"I have come here today to fight for the country's sovereignty.

"The impact of untracked immigration has crushed our country. You can’t even get a doctor’s appointment. We are here today to peacefully demonstrate that we have had enough."