Police and the city council applied for the banning order after fears that it could lead to unrest and disorder in the city.

The National Front had planned the march for Saturday, 24 November.

We will not tolerate those intent on causing disruption within our own communities

Tom Rodulson, Westwood Residents' Association

The ban, which came into force on Friday, is effective for the next three months.

Community leaders from Peterborough meeting on Thursday had discussed issues surrounding the NF's notification of its intention to march.

Police Inspector David Brooks, community race relations officer, said: "We looked very carefully at the application made to us.

"Balancing the needs of the community against the rights of individuals to protests, we made a considered approach to have the march banned."

'United front'

City councillor Michael Burton said: "The council and the police are united in our efforts to ensure Peterborough remains a safe, friendly place to live for everyone."

Tom Rodulson, of Westwood Residents' Association, said: "The message is one of a united front.

"We will not tolerate those intent on causing disruption within our own communities.

"We call upon everyone living, working and visiting Peterborough to help us all achieve that."

Summer marches

During the summer the home secretary banned proposed NF marches in Birmingham, Oldham, Bradford, Burnley and Blackburn amid race fears.

A Home Office spokeswoman said: "The banning orders are there to prevent serious public disorder and serious disruption for the life of local communities.

"This order was made by local authority on the advice of police."

The NF has recently moved its headquarters to nearby Leicester, according to its website.

It claims to have had an upsurge in members, especially in the Midlands, since the General Election in June.