UK police chiefs have asked people to “work with officers” in anticipation of demonstrations following the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis police custody.

Millions have taken to the streets of cities across the United States in response to his death last week. Protestors have defied curfews, while US president Donald Trump has pressed state governors to quell violence.

Demonstrators are expected to meet in Swindon town centre this Saturday.

In a joint statement signed by the heads of the National Police Chiefs' Council, College of Policing and the Police Superintendents' Association, three senior officers today said there was a long tradition in the UK of policing by consent. The statement is supported by Wiltshire Police chief constable Kier Pritchard.

"Policing is complex and challenging and sometimes we fall short. When we do, we are not afraid to shine a light on injustices or to be held to account,” they said.

In a plea to those keen to take part in demonstrations, the statement said: "We know people want to make their voices heard. The right to lawful protest is key part of any democracy, which UK police uphold and facilitate.

“But coronavirus remains a deadly disease and there are still restrictions in place to prevent its spread, which include not gathering outside in groups of more than six people.

“So, for whatever reason people want to come together, we ask that people continue to work with officers at this challenging time."

George Floyd died on May 25 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. During his arrest a white police officer, Derek Chauvin, kept his knee on his neck for almost nine minutes.

His death has led to significant protests and rioting across the US.

Most protests passed peacefully last night, and while there were scattered reports of looting in New York, the country appeared calmer than it did a day earlier, when violence swept through multiple cities.

More than 20,000 National Guard members have been called up in 29 states to deal with the violence.