GREATER Manchester Police has urged people to not gather in large groups in memory of Sarah Everard.

Ms Everard vanished while walking home from a friend’s flat in south London on March 3.

Her suspected kidnap and murder prompting anger over the safety of women on the UK’s streets.

But different police forces across the UK have warned people that they could be breaking the law if they gather in large groups to hold vigils.

A GMP spokesperson said: "We along with the rest of the country are shocked and saddened about what has happened to Sarah Everard and the thoughts of everyone at GMP are with her family and friends at this horrendous time.

"Women should never have to live in fear or change their behaviour to keep themselves safe on our streets and GMP stands with this message and understands why events were planned in support of it."

Instead of gathering in large groups, police have encouraged the use of online events along with doorstep vigils, to ensure that Covid restrictions are followed.

"We understand there are a number of online events as well as a doorstep vigil that have been arranged for this evening and GMP absolutely supports these and encourages our communities to join them - they allow people to stand together over this important matter in a covid-safe way and in a way which complies with government regulations as they currently stand.

"The people of Greater Manchester have already sacrificed a huge amount to tackle the pandemic and keep people safe and we are urging our communities to continue to do the right thing. Please do not gather in large groups and put yourselves and others at risk of contracting and spreading the virus."

A Metropolitan Police officer has been charged with the murder of Ms Everard.

Serving police constable Wayne Couzens, 48, was charged on Friday evening with kidnapping and killing the marketing executive.