Cambridgeshire police tonight insisted there had been no disorder in Peterborough, as officers warned the public to stay calm and ignore false rumours on the internet. Police latest on Twitter at 10:40pm: 'No information to suggest any threat to Peterborough or Cambridge at this stage.'

Cambridgeshire police said patrols had been stepped up in Peterborough and there were 'contingency plans' in place to deal with disorder in the city.

Officers used Twitter to counter claims that there were problems at the Brotherhood Retail Park and other locations.

Earlier Supt Paul Fullwood, of Cambridgeshire police, said: 'At this time there is no information to suggest there is any threat to Peterborough but we have contingency plans in place.

'Our message is clear, there is no threat to the people of Peterborough or local businesses and people should carry on with business as usual.

'We understand there may be concerns and feelings of vulnerability within a number of communities and are working closely with our partners and community leaders to address those concerns. Patrols in the city have been increased as a precaution.

'Violence, disorder and any other criminality will not be tolerated in Peterborough and we will deal swiftly and robustly with anyone who uses the emerging issues in London as an excuse to break the law in this county.'

Officers from Cambridgeshire have been assisting the Metropolitan Police to deal with incidents of violence and disorder in London.

A Police Support Unit of 25 officers was sent to the capital yesterday and returned to the county this morning.

'As part of our national mutual aid arrangements we have provided support to the Metropolitan Police and are planning what other resources we can offer over the coming days,' said Supt Fullwood.

Earlier claims that shops had closed early in Peterbough proved to be untrue.