TAUNTON residents will be getting behind the Black Lives Matter movement as some join together for a protest. 

A socially-distant demonstration had been planned for Vivary Park today at noon.

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.

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.