Police have called for unity in Wiltshire as riots and disorder spread across the UK following the death of three children.

Scenes of violence, vandalism, burning police cars and projectiles being thrown at mosques have flooded people's news feeds over the past few days as violence across the country continues to escalate.  

The riots first started in Southport last Tuesday (July 30) after three children were killed in a knife attack while attending a Taylor Swift-themed dance class.

Currently, almost 400 people have been arrested in relation to the disorder, with more than 50 people charged with criminal offences.

Although no riots have been seen in Wiltshire, Wiltshire Police's Deputy Chief Constable and the Police and Crime Commissioner have issued an urgent statement to the public.

Scenes from some of the riots in MiddlesboroughScenes from some of the riots in Middlesborough (Image: Newsquest)

“Policing is part of every community and we are committed to keeping you safe - we will not tolerate any attempts at division," said Deputy Chief Constable Craig Dibdin.

“Whilst we have not seen the level of criminality other areas of the country have endured, we have a series of dynamic policing plans in place which means we can respond proportionality to any incident within our communities.

“We will facilitate peaceful and lawful protest, but, let me be clear, we will not tolerate any disorder or behaviour which negatively affects the safety of our communities."

He added: "There is a lot of misinformation on social media and a lot of hatred being circulated about the root causes of this violent disorder.

"We’d ask people to look to their local leaders, officers and trusted news sources for updates and information.

“We know there will be members of the community who are feeling frightened and marginalised at this time.

"We are here for you, and we are committed to keeping you safe.  These criminals do not speak for our communities, and no one should ever have to fall victim to hate crime."

The riots in the aftermath of a knife attack on children in SouthportThe riots in the aftermath of a knife attack on children in Southport (Image: PA)

Police and Crime Commissioner, Philip Wilkinson, added: “The level of violence and disorder that we have seen is inexcusable and we must not allow disinformation to stoke increasing tensions.

“Those committing criminal acts should feel the full force of the law, to hold them to account and show those who may be tempted to commit similar criminality that it will not be tolerated in a modern and inclusive society.

“No one should be left feeling fearful and frightened that they may be targeted because of their ethnicity.

"Right now we must focus on enforcing the law, delivering justice and ensuring the safety of our communities."