A wave of riots has swept North East towns and cities since the deaths of three girls in Southport.

On Wednesday, July 31 there were ugly scenes in Hartlepool as rioters threw bricks and hit police officers with planks of wood.

A police car was set on fire and multiple shops were smashed to pieces before the offenders were dispersed.

In the days that followed there have been riots in Sunderland and Middlesbrough along with cities across the country.

You can see the full timeline of what has happened here:

The demonstrations have been described as "far-right" thuggery by Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has promised offenders will feel the full force of the law.

The Prime Minister’s spokesman told reporters: “Anyone who stokes this violence, whether on the internet or in person, can be prosecuted and face prison.”

We have approached Cleveland Police and Northumbria Police for updated numbers for people arrested in relation to the riots.

(Image: owen humphreys)

Arrests are still being made as the police analyse video footage of the events and trace offenders.

Acting Chief Constable David Felton said: "I want to reassure the people of Teesside that we will continue to identify those involved in these acts of violence and arrest them and put them before the courts."

Here is the updated list of arrests made:

Hartlepool - 21

Middlesbrough - 43

Sunderland - 14

Following the most recent riot in Middlesbrough on August 4 the police put out a statement saying that they would remain in the town overnight.

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A spokesperson for Cleveland Police said: "There will be an increased police presence across our towns and communities in the coming days, providing reassurance to residents and speaking to members of the public about their concerns.

"We are aware of information currently in circulation on social media and other platforms about further activity in the area and we’re monitoring the situation closely.

"Cleveland Police’s focus remains firmly on protecting people, protecting communities, and taking robust action against those who are intent on causing violence and fear across Teesside."