Np doubt the majority were sincerely wanting to show concern and were affected by what has happened to Sarah Everard but anybody who thought about it should have known that it was likely to turn into a massive gathering with the potential for trouble. I would have sought another way of paying respect.
Police intervention is always going to look more or less heavy handed when people don't want to comply, but I'd rather see four officers grabbing an arm or a leg each and hauling somebody off with overwhelming force than people being bashed on the head with batons.
The police should be looking for a better way to respond but it's hard to see how they can please everybody.
It will be counter productive if the debate focuses on how to police vigils/demonstrations rather than the safety of women.
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