Thousands take the knee for George Floyd in poignant scene at Parliament Square protest

Thousands of people took the knee for George Floyd in London today as protests spread across Britain.

Demonstrators descended on Parliament Square in Westminster earlier following the tragic death of the 46-year-old in the US.

During a minute’s silence hundreds of protesters went down on one knee while raising one fist in the air.

The crowds then began chanting “no justice, no peace” and George Floyd’s name.

Pictures showed the majority of demonstrates wearing face masks, with others using gloves and hand sanitiser.

Hundreds held signs at the protest in solidarity with George, who died in Minneapolis on May 25 after a police officer detaining him knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes as fellow officers stood by.

Many signs say “black lives matter” and “no justice, no peace”.

As the rally began in London, one organiser used a megaphone to tell the crowds: “We are not here for violence. Today is sheer positivity, today is sheer love.”

She added: “Today we will not commit any violence to anyone.”

Protesters were also reminded to try and keep a two metre distance from others where possible and to be mindful of the pandemic.

A group of drummers played for the crowds in London, many of whom were carrying placards and dancing in time with the beat.

Elsewhere, huge crowds of people are also gathered in Piccadilly Gardens, Manchester holding placards and banners.