Police chiefs in Glasgow have appealed for peace after Glasgow City Council gave the green light for two Irish Republican marches in the city.

The decision follows violent riot-like scenes last Friday in Govan as loyalist protesters disrupted an Irish Unity march by the James Connolly Flute Band.

Officers in riot gear had to keep factions separate and bins were set alight.

Questions were raised in the days following the riot whether or not to allow this weekend's marches to go ahead.

Glasgow Times: Police chiefs have issued a warning ahead of future marchesPolice chiefs have issued a warning ahead of future marches

READ MORE: Council allow two Irish republican parades to go ahead after Govan riot

But council chiefs issued the green light following on from advice from Police Scotland.

The two marches that were planned for Saturday are the Cairde na hEireann calton Republicans from Millroad Street in Calton to the La Pasionaria monument in Clyde Street leaving at 1.30pm.

The second march was organised by the Friends of Irish Republican Prisoners Welfare Association to take place from Blythswood Square at 3pm heading to Barrowland Park.

However, a top officer has warned against any distruption and urged for "peaceful" actions on either side.

READ MORE: Govan in lockdown as riot cops storm march

Assistant Chief Constable Bernard Higgins said: "Following the disorder last Friday, we provided further information at the request of Glasgow City Council about two processions planned for Saturday, 7 September.

"Our view is that if the processions were banned, some form of protest and disorder could still take place and the policing profile for Saturday would therefore be similar.

"If the processions go ahead it would allow us to continue to engage with known organisers to ensure balanced rights were upheld and to police the events under the conditions agreed by the council."

He added: "I need to appeal to people who plan on taking part in processions or counter protests to do so peacefully.

"We will have a range of policing resources, including a range of specialist assets, in attendance and will take any necessary action against anyone causing disruption.

"The decision to amend the route or the timing, or to prohibit any procession is a matter for the relevant local authority.

"Police Scotland is required to assist councils to make informed decisions by making appropriate representations on notifications which could potentially significantly risk public safety, disorder, damage to property or disruption to the life of the community."