Far-right protesters have clashed with riot police in Southport, England, after the stabbing of three children on Monday during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class.

Large crowds gathered near the scene of the incident, and fought with Merseyside police. This came after speculation about the alleged teenage killer who was arrested for the stabbing.

The Merseyside police addressed the teenager’s identity, saying that  “the person arrested was born in the UK” and that “speculation helps nobody at this time.”

Images showed riot police huddled together, wearing helmets and carrying large shields as they fought against the violent crowds. Multiple police vans were set alight by protesters, who also climbed onto buildings, and threw bottles, bricks and other objects at the police.

Police told media that they suspect the crowd to be supporters of the English Defence League, an English far-right organisation.

Merseyside Assistant Chief Constable Alex Goss described the events as “sickening”.

“Yesterday, our officers and other members of the emergency services were faced with one of the most difficult situations they will ever face. Tonight, they find themselves being attacked as they endeavour to prevent disorder,” he said.

The stabbing the day before resulted in three children being killed and 10 others severely injured.

Taylor Swift addressed the incident on an Instagram story.

“I’m just completely in shock,” she wrote.

“The loss of life and innocence, and the horrendous trauma inflicted on everyone who was there… I am at a complete loss for how to ever convey my sympathy to these families.”

Photo: Southport railway station by Small-town hero is available HERE and is used under a Creative Commons Licence. This image has not been modified.