Police 'attacked with glass bottles' in beach disorder
Police officers dealing with disorder on Bournemouth beach said they were attacked with glass bottles and missiles as they tried to disperse the crowds.
Three people were arrested on Tuesday after violence broke out at about 18:00 BST.
The incident began with a fight on Pier Approach which quickly descended into disorder involving a large number of people.
Extra officers were brought in from Hampshire, along with the National Police Air Service helicopter and a police dog.
Dorset Police said those arrested remained in custody on Wednesday afternoon - a 22-year-old man from Tottenham in London, held on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, and two 17-year-old boys - one from Southampton and one from Portsmouth - both arrested on suspicion of affray.
Videos shared online showed large groups of people on the beach and promenade near Bournemouth Pier, chanting names of football teams.
Ch Supt Julie Howe said "groups of young people" had travelled to Bournemouth from outside of the county and "were intent on causing disorder".
She said, throughout the incident, officers had also been responding to unrelated critical medical emergencies, including giving CPR to a woman on the beach.
"This type of disorder takes officers away from dealing with what matters most - protecting the public," she said.
"Despite the volume of objects being thrown, it is extremely fortunate that none of our officers were seriously injured."
Howe praised the officers for their bravery and professionalism, adding: "The swift response quickly de-escalated the situation and prevented any further large-scale disorder."
She said: "There will be an ongoing large police presence in the area of the beach.
"Our message is strong and clear – do not visit Bournemouth if you are intent on causing harm."
Bournemouth resident Lydia Mirco, who witnessed the chaos unfold, said it was "incredibly sad" that families might now feel they need to avoid the beach.
She said: "It's heartbreaking that, as parents, we now have to warn our children to stay away from beaches and town centres during the summer because we no longer feel they are safe.
"Children should be able to enjoy their youth without parents constantly worrying whether they will come home safely."
Dorset Police Federation chair Chris Wood said he was "appalled" after learning officers had been "assaulted by a small minority" of beachgoers.
He said: "Officers were attacked with glass bottles and other missiles whilst dealing with members of the public and a number suffered injuries.
"Fortunately, the injuries are minor and all officers remained at work to support their colleagues.
"I am grateful to the response the force took and for our colleagues in Hampshire who came to Dorset to assist."
Wood said he spoke to officers involved and watched some of their body-worn video.
He said: "Their professionalism in the face of this incident was unquestioned.
"It was also clear there were some members of public who stepped in to help our officers, which I am very thankful for."
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said those involved in violence and criminality would be dealt with "robustly", adding: "I would also like to thank all officers and emergency services personnel for their professionalism and dedication during this incident."
