Broadstairs fireworks fight: Teens from Ramsgate and Herne Bay arrested
12:42, 18 July 2019
updated: 13:54, 18 July 2019
Two girls have been arrested following a brawl at a town's fireworks display last night.
Dozens of officers descended on Broadstairs after fighting broke out with one trader describing the scenes as a "war zone".
Police say the teenage girls - one aged 16 from Ramsgate and 15-year-old from Herne Bay - were arrested in connection with the disturbance at 9.30pm - just 15 minutes before the display on Viking Bay started.
The future of the event has been called into question with organisers saying if further police demands are needed at the remaining displays through July and August then they would be forced to cancel.
Kent Police and colleagues from British Transport Police attended Harbour Street to break up the altercation and bring the scenes under control.
A police spokesman confirmed the older girl was arrested on suspicion of affray and possessing cannabis and has been released while investigations continue.
The 15-year-old girl was arrested on suspicion of affray and remains in custody, police added.
Officers are continuing inquiries today after the incident disrupted the first of four firework nights which take place throughout the summer.
The police spokesman added: "An immediate dispersal order was put in place to tackle any further risks of anti-social behaviour. Under a dispersal order, anyone continuing to cause a nuisance would be directed to leave or risk arrest if they return."
