ORGANISERS of a pop concert that was abandoned as fans rioted have said they intend to put the event on again next year.

A teenager was stabbed as gangs of youths clashed at the free family beach party, in South Shields. Women and children had to run for cover at the Galaxy FM concert, on Sandhaven Beach, as drunken youths began fighting.

Yesterday, Galaxy FM programme director Matt McClure said: "We don't think the actions of a mindless minority should affect the enjoyment of the majority.

"We would love it to go ahead again next year, but that has to be in consultation with the police and the local authority."

Station bosses are due to meet the police and council officials on Thursday morning for a debriefing.

Trouble flared in the 10,000-strong crowd when police told organisers to pull the plug on the event on Saturday evening, after a successful afternoon that had seen music fans enjoy performances from acts including the Cheeky Girls and former All Saint, Melanie Blatt.

As the organisers left the stage, youths hurled bottles and beer cans and the trouble erupted. However, Mr McClure said the pop acts were all long gone and had not had to duck for cover, as reported by some of the media.

A 15-year-old Washington boy was knifed during the riot. The teenager, who is not being named, is recovering at home after being treated at South Tyneside Hospital. He was not seriously injured.

Police dispersed the crowds but the gangs moved into South Shields and continued to cause trouble. Officers made a total of 40 arrests.

An 18-year-old was later bailed to appear before South Tyneside magistrates today charged with causing grievous bodily harm.