HUNDREDS of anti-racism campaigners are in Glasgow’s George Square this World Refugee Day despite calls from the Scottish Government, city council and police for people not to attend.

There had been concerns for the Stand Up to Racism demonstration after far-right loyalists targeted a protest for asylum seekers’ living conditions in the square earlier this week.

Police had urged demonstrators to “find another way” to protest issues this weekend, pointing to strict coronavirus lockdown rules aimed at stopping the spread of the virus.

However organisers said today’s rally would send a “positive anti-racist message from Glasgow’s George Square to the world”.

Ruby Hirsch of Glasgow Stand Up to Racism argued: At a time when the anti-racist movement is growing in size and strength we need to continue to work to grow it, put down roots in every area, and build with everyone saying that Black Lives Matter, from trade unions to faith groups and all equality campaigners to defeat racism in Scotland.

"Glasgow has a proud history of standing up against racism. The protest is about coming together to send a clear message to the world - refugees are welcome in this city, black lives matter.”

Reports have indicated the rally has been largely peaceful so far, though there is a large police presence of at least 100 officers.

Supporters of the demo include Stand Up To Racism, Glasgow Campaign to Welcome Refugees, Positive Action in Housing, Afghan Human Rights Foundation and unions.

Attendees were asked to wear masks, adhere to two-metre distancing rules and not to travel farther than public health advice allows.

Activist Jonathon Shafi shared a clip of hundreds of people demonstrating in the square, taking a knee and chanting “Black Lives Matter” and "no justice, no peace".

He reported that politicians and civic figures had sent in statements which were being read out to the crowds.

Wednesday night’s scenes, which saw far-right loyalists target a protest calling for improved living conditions for asylum seekers, were branded “disgraceful” by the First Minister.

READ MORE: George Square: Police warn protesters to stay away

Across the UK in recent week “statue defenders” have moved in to “protect” statues from vandalism by anti-racism campaigners.

Some statues with links to the slave trade and colonialism have been hit with graffiti or identified as a target for removal by anti-racism campaigners. In Bristol, protesters tore down a statue of slave trader Edward Colston earlier this month.

However, some of the events to "protect" statues, particularly in Glasgow and London, have resulted in chaos and arrests as far-right thugs got involved.