THREE teenagers from the Vale have been bailed following a mass brawl involving more than 50 people.
Police are now pleading for witnesses to come forward following the incident which began as a minor disturbance at the Foregate in Worcester just before 3.45am on Bank Holiday Monday (August 25).
It then escalated into a more serious disorder involving dozens of people. A number of police officers were assaulted with several sustaining minor injuries as they tried to calm the situation.
Four men, two aged 19 and from Pershore, an 18-year-old from Evesham, and one from Malvern, aged 31, were arrested in connection with the offence and released on bail until Monday, September 29 while further enquiries are carried out.
Officers are now keen to speak to anyone who witnessed the disturbance or may have any footage or photographs of the disorder which can be used in evidence.
Despite some criticism of the way police handled the situation on social media, Detective Inspector Neil Austin praised the work of his officers.
“This was a highly volatile situation, which initially started as a minor incident of anti-social behaviour but escalated into more serious disorder,” he said.
“We are now working to establish the exact circumstances around the incident and would encourage anyone who has any pictures, video or information to come forward as it could be vital to the investigation.
“We would like to recognise the bravery and restraint shown by our officers, as well as thanking those who supported us. Our officers our highly trained in dealing with these kinds of situations but if anyone does have any concerns we would welcome the opportunity to speak to them.
“Fortunately, disorder on this scale, is a very rare occurrence in Worcester, and we would like to reassure the public that police are continuing to keep our communities safe.”
Anyone with information should call police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org
