Protesters will gather in the Watford town centre this weekend to support the Black Lives Matter movement after the death of George Floyd.

A peaceful protest, news of which has been spread through social media, will take place outside Five Guys this Saturday (June 6) at 2pm.

A separate walk will also take place the same day starting at 1pm going from McDonald's in High Street, Watford, to Cassiobury Park.

The movement is against racial injustice and police brutality. Protests have taken place across the US and around the world after a black man, George Floyd, died in police custody in the US city of Minneapolis.

Four police officers have been charged over his killing, which took place after one officer pressed his knee to his neck for almost nine minutes.

Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said: "I was horrified to see the shocking murder of George Floyd and I know that this, and events like it, have caused pain to so many people.

"It's important we always stand up and challenge every form of discrimination, racism and injustice.

Watford Observer:

A mural for George Floyd at Belfast. Credit: David Young/PA Wire

"I'm proud to be mayor of a diverse town, where people from many different backgrounds care for one another and share in each other’s successes and struggles. This is a source of strength for our town.

"There are still many injustices to overcome. It is deeply worrying that people from certain backgrounds have been disproportionately impacted by Covid-19.

"Sadly we are still seeing many coronavirus infections and deaths in this country. It’s vital that we all stay as safe as possible and maintain social distancing to stop the spread of this virus.

"I would like to thank our local police for the work they have been doing to keep us all safe, particularly during the difficulties of the last few months."

In the post online, people who will be protesting outside of Five Guys have been asked to make signs, prepare chants and bring cameras.

But for both events people have been asked to keep within social distancing guidelines, by staying at least two metres apart from each other, and to wear masks and gloves.

A spokesperson for Hertfordshire Constabulary said: "We are aware of a peaceful protest potentially taking place in Watford town centre on Saturday and have been working to identify and engage positively with its organisers.

"Of course we recognise the right to lawful protest and will be working to facilitate that while also ensuring the safety of everyone concerned.

"In light of the continuing risks around Covid-19, we would ask anyone attending to follow the current government guidelines to ensure their safety and that of others."