A BLACK Lives Matter protest in Taunton has been rearranged after coronavirus fears led to the cancellation of the first event.

A socially-distant demonstration had been planned for Vivary Park on Friday, June 12, but following concerning news about an increase in coronavirus cases in the cases, the organisers thought best to postpone the important event.

Instead, the new event will take place next week.

The latest wave of the Black Lives Matter movement has swept the globe following the death of 46-year-old George Floyd in Minneapolis last month.

Mr Floyd called out for help during his last breaths while police officer Derek Chauvin 'detained' him with his knee on his neck for 8 minutes and 46 seconds.

Since Mr Floyd's death, demonstrations have erupted across the USA as well as further afield, including in the UK.

An event in Bristol received widespread coverage after a statue of slave trader Edward Colston was torn down and thrown into the harbour.

Now, a new type of protest is occurring, with people keen to protect the statues taking to the streets.

In London, arrests have been made as police officers were attacked while historic sites, such as Churchill's statue, were encased for their own protection.

In Taunton, veterans came out to 'protect' the war memorial in Vivary Park on the day of the planned protest, which had already been cancelled.

A smaller BLM peaceful gathering took place outside Market House in the town centre, and organisers were left confused as to why the safety of the war memorial was ever in question.

The new BLM protest has been planned for noon on Monday, June 22.

The organisers have asked participants to wear masks, gloves if possible, and to bring their own water bottles.

The protest will be strictly socially-distant and no violence or vandalism will be condoned.