Loyalists have vowed they "will not be forced off our streets" as they continue their scathing attack on Glasgow City Council.

More than 1000 protesters - including members of the Scottish Protestants Against Discrimination (SPAD), Orange Lodge of Scotland and Apprentice Boys of Derry - descended on George Square yesterday in a demonstration following a marching ban.

Police say the event took place "without incident" and no arrests were made.

SPAD chiefs have now thanked their followers for their support at the protest - which they say is "just the beginning of a long road ahead."

Glasgow Times: SPAD gathered in George SquareSPAD gathered in George Square

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A statement posted on their Twitter read: "Yesterday sent a strong message to our detractors that we will not be forced off our streets, nor shall we accept clear discrimination towards our culture and faith.

"This is just the beginning of a long road ahead. 

"A huge thanks must also go to everyone who turned up to offer their support, including but not limited to, SPAD supporters, Orange and ABOD members, bandsmen/women and Loyalist and Unionist friends. 

"They must all be commended for not only attending but for pulling together to stand united in the fight against the nationalist led Glasgow City Council."

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The protest was held in response to an emergency committee ruling on Wednesday, which decided that six parades this weekend - by both Loyalist and Irish Republican groups - would be banned following advice from Police Scotland.

The Republican Network for Unity, Bridgeton Protestant Boys Flute Band, Pride of the North Flute Band and two marches from the Whiteinch Orange and Purple District were due to take place on Saturday.

Meanwhile, the Partick Orange and Purple District had arranged to march today.

Officers were out in force at the protest, with tensions heightened following two weekends of severe disruption surrounding parades in the city.

Around 100 officers monitored events as more and more protesters joined the pack.

Mounted units and riot vans were on alert in the streets surrounding the square but were not called into action as the event progressed peacefully.