PERFORMANCES at Cliffs Pavilion have been cancelled amid widespread rumours of an "anti-immigration demonstration" in the city today.

Pretty Woman: The Musical shows will not be going ahead today and audiences have been told not to travel to the Westcliff theatre for these performances, with emails sent to customers with "further updates".

The cancellations come after Essex Police issued a message urging residents to "ignore" posts circulating on social media which claim demonstrations are planned in parts of Essex today- including in the borough today.

Assistant Chief Constable Andy Mariner said: “There is disinformation on social media talking about activity in Essex today. Our message is clear – ignore it.

“If you’re planning on coming here intent on disorder, we will be waiting for you, and you will be arrested.

“To all the good people keep going about your business, because that’s exactly what we’re doing too.

“There is information going around on the internet highlighting specific locations around the country and some of those details of locations are just plain false, including here in Essex.

“If you turn up thinking of causing an issue, all you'll find is people getting on with their days...and our officers.“

Photos shared with the Echo also show businesses in the borough which have boarded up their shop fronts ahead of the alleged "planned action". Small businesses said police have been visiting stores to offer their support and advice on precautions they can take, PA reports.

Assistant Chief Constable Mariner added: “We want people to come and enjoy everything our county has to offer – our beautiful beaches, our fantastic rural areas, and are bustling cities and towns.

“If you’re coming here to do that, you are very welcome.

“But if you’re planning to commit crime, you’ll be arrested and you won’t be going home”.