Police officers attacked and cars damaged in Eastbourne park

Sussex Police said it was responding to concerns around large groups congregating in Gildredge Park.

Eastbourne Police put in a dispersal order for the park last night to stop people from gathering, and to prevent any associated anti-social behaviour.

A spokesman said: “Our officers were conducting high-visibility patrols in the park to identify and address any criminal activity.

“There were approximately 450 people gathered in the park and although a number were of good nature, there were four arrests for assault on an emergency worker and drunk and disorderly.

“Two police officers received minor injuries. A piece of sound equipment was seized and two police cars were damaged.”

Eastbourne district commander Chief Inspector Di Lewis said: “We put these measures in place ahead of the weekend to minimise any antisocial behaviour like we have been seeing recently in Gildredge Park.

“Disruptive behaviour from large groups will not be tolerated and while our officers will always aim to engage with those responsible in the first instance, they will take further action where necessary as can be seen from Friday’s arrests.”

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