A BAN on the far-right English Defence League (EDL) marching in Waltham Forest this weekend is set to be announced later today.

The Metropolitan Police has applied to Home Secretary Theresa May for the group to be barred from demonstrating in the borough on Saturday over concerns for public safety.

The Guardian, the council and community group We Are Waltham Forest have campaigned against the EDL returning to Waltham Forest following a demonstration in September.

The group was blocked from marching to a rally near the town hall by thousands of residents and anti-fascist groups.

An event celebrating the borough's diversity in Walthamstow Town Square will still go ahead on Saturday.

The application applies to Waltham Forest, Tower Hamlets, Islington and Newham.

Chief Superintendent Peter Terry, who was to be in charge of policing the march on Saturday, said: "We have made this decision based on specific intelligence and information, and our message is clear, we do not want people coming into the areas to attend these events."

"Our engagement work with local communities will continue to ensure that we, wherever possible, address any concerns and provide factual information about the role and legal powers of the police.