Beach disorder sees arrests as officers assaulted

Police officers have been assaulted at Bournemouth beach during "disorder involving a large number of people", Dorset Police has said.

The force said it was making arrests and "working to disperse" those at the scene in the Undercliff Drive area, near to the pier.

Assistant Chief Constable Mark Callaghan said: "I am sending a clear message to those who are intent on causing harm or using violence to leave the vicinity.

"There will be a large police presence in the area while we seek to keep the public and our officers safe."

He added: "We have commenced an investigation into the disorder and we will continue to identify those responsible and bring them to justice.

"I would also like to thank our officers for their professional and courageous actions during this incident."

The local authority, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council, praised the force for its "swift action" in response to the unrest.

In a statement, BCP Council: "Incidents like this are taken extremely seriously, and we take a joined-up approach to antisocial behaviour and criminality, working alongside agencies to share intelligence, act quickly and target issues when they arise.

"While the overwhelming majority of people enjoy our coastline responsibly, incidents do occur."

Bournemouth beach has proved a popular spot for holidaymakers and locals during the ongoing warm weather, with thousands visiting over the bank holiday weekend and into the school holidays.