CHIEF Constable Chris Sims has defended how his officers reacted to the riots – saying he was confident correct policing operations had been in place.

Speaking at the peace rally, Mr Sims said it had been an “incredibly long week”, but told the crowds that their presence there meant they could “end it on a high note”.

And he also revealed how members of the public had been going up to his officers in the street thanking them for their actions and also taking cakes and gifts into police stations.

“My officers acted bravely and we will bring to justice people who have broken the law,” he said,

Earlier yesterday, the Chief Constable took a swipe at the politicians for their criticism of his force.

“Officers have been overwhelmed by the support shown by the public and it feels a million miles from the debates apparently raging in Westminster,” he said.

“I look forward to being held to account for the decisions I have made over the past week which I believe were consistent with the available information and resources.

“I am proud of how quickly the force adopted new tactics to this unprecedented challenge. Officers committed acts of incredible bravery and have been working with astonishing commitment to ensure the critical sense of deterrence has been re-established.”