A POPULAR event in Hartlepool's calendar finished on a sour note at the weekend when fights erupted around the historic Headland.
Families had gathered to the final night of the ten-day Headland Carnival on Saturday hoping to enjoy the atmosphere.
However, it was marred by a cycle of violence and drunkenness.
In one incident at around 10pm, a handful of girls, aged around 13 and 14, fought near the Quaysider, in Northgate.
There were also fights in Middlegate, the Town Moor and other areas of the Headland.
Five youths were arrested. Four for public disorder offences and one for drugs and public disorder.
A police spokesman said: "The police were called to break up many fights, our resources were stretched to the limit but we managed to keep order. We want people to enjoy this as a family festival, there should not have to be a high police presence at an event like this."
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