Video shows men hurling bricks at riot police in Hartlepool

Video shows men throwing bricks, rubble and planks of wood at officers with riot shields on the streets of Hartlepool.

One of the men has attempted to cover his face, while what appears to be a child with his face covered also joins in the unrest.

A man throws debris towards riot police. (Image: Picture: TERRY BLACKBURN)

The streets were covered in debris as police closed roads. Photos showed shop workers in a Sainsbury’s Local branch hiding behind the shutters as rioters walked past.

Police with dogs pushed back at protestors as tensions boiled over into the early hours.

A cop car was set alight with flames engulfing the vehicle.

Eight people were arrested over the course of the evening with more arrests expected, Cleveland Police said.

The force has launched a full criminal investigation and said uniformed officers will remain in the area for some time.

A spokesperson added: “We understand that these events will have been hugely concerning to our communities and we want to reassure people that the actions of those involved will be dealt with to bring those responsible to justice.”

Recommended reading:

• Eight arrested following disorder in Hartlepool days after Southport stabbings
• WATCH: Shocking footage as police car set alight during Hartlepool disorder
• Riot police deal with large-scale disorder in Hartlepool as bricks thrown at officers

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The protestors defied calls from Jenni Stancombe, mum of seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe knifed in Stockport on Monday, for calm. During violence in the seaside town on Tuesday (July 30) she posted to social media: “This is the only thing that I will write, but please stop the violence in Southport tonight.

“The police have been nothing but heroic these last 24 hours and they and we don't need this.”

Sir Keir Starmer will meet with police chiefs today to discuss the violence. He is expected to pay tribute to the frontline workers policing the riots.