Fears of violent disorder on Wednesday were quashed thanks to a "show of force from the police" and "unity from communities" who appeared at counter demonstrations, Sir Mark Rowley said.The Metropolitan Police Commissioner's comments came after shops were boarded up in many towns and cities over fears of further rioting after a week of violent disorder which started in Southport, Merseyside, on July 30.

Fears of violent disorder on Wednesday were quashed thanks to a "show of force from the police" and "unity from communities" who appeared at counter demonstrations, Sir Mark Rowley said.The Metropolitan Police Commissioner's comments came after shops were boarded up in many towns and cities over fears of further rioting after a week of violent disorder which started in Southport, Merseyside, on July 30.