UK riots live: Almost 500 arrested over far-right disorder, as judges hit thugs with more heavy jail sentences

The total number of arrests made relating to violent disorder following the Southport killings now stands at 483, with 149 charges issued against those involved.

It comes as two rioters who were “at the forefront” of violent far-right disorder on Merseyside have been jailed over their “disgraceful” actions.

John O’Malley, 43, and William Morgan, 69, have both been handed a sentence of two years and eight months at Liverpool Crown Court after admitting to violent disorder last Tuesday.

It comes as the Metropolitan Police chief Sir Mark Rowley joined his officers at dawn for raids to arrest rioting “thugs” following the anti-racism protests on Wednesday.