Hartlepool MP Jonathan Brash condemns violent disorder

MP Jonathan Brash said protesters do not represent the vast majority of Hartlepudlians as he condemned their behaviour.

In a direct message to rioters, he told them they had “no excuse” for their behaviour and said those who committed crimes would feel the full force of the law.

It comes after unrest boiled over for hours with protesters clashing with riot police, hurling missiles towards officers and torching a police car.

A police car is engulfed in flames. (Image: Picture: TERRY BLACKBURN)

Speaking to the Echo as a clear-up operation begins Jonathan Brash said: “It’s appalling to see this happening in our town, these people don’t represent the values of Hartlepool people.

“I’ve been speaking to businesses who’ve had their windows smashed, cars burnt out, it’s a terrible scene.

“I’d like to say thank you to the police for the work they did last night to bring back civil order as they continue to do that over the coming days.

Jonathan Brash speaking to the Echo on Thursday (August 1) morning. (Image: KAYLEIGH FRASER)

“I reiterate to Hartlepool people – this isn’t who we are, this doesn’t represent the vast, vast majority of us. Please come together like Hartlepool people do, stay calm, stand up against this behaviour.”

Rioters clash with police. (Image: Picture: TERRY BLACKBURN)

In a direct message to the protesters, he added: “Frankly you have no excuse for your behaviour. There is no justification for what happened last night. Nothing you can say will convince anybody in this town that what you did was right.

“Police are investigating and arrests are going to be made, and people who have been perpetrating these sorts of crime will be arrested and they will be sentenced to the full extent of the law.

“My message to them is, ‘stop’.”

Brash was elected last month as Labour won back the seat of Hartlepool from Tory Jill Mortimer.

In a post to Facebook, as the protests were beginning, Mortimer said: “I’m in town at the moment and I’m really concerned about reports of unrest on our streets.

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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“When the community leaders fail to speak on behalf of the people this is what happens.”

Eight people have been arrested so far with more arrests expected to be made.

Cleveland Police confirmed a full criminal investigation had been launched, adding that those involved will be dealt with and brought to justice.