Police invoked a dispersal order yesterday after seafront disorder in Southend.

The dispersal order, in place from 6pm yesterday until the same time on Friday, was invoked after a huge fight broke out on Thorpe Bay Gardens on Tuesday evening.

The incident appeared to show a black Ford Fiesta driving into pedestrians, some of which were forced to evade the car.

A teenager has been arrested on suspicion of two offences after a man was assaulted on Thorpe Bay Gardens.

The 17-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm and being in possession of an offensive weapon.

A man aged in his late teens was found with a reported knife injury to his head, which was deemed not serious by police.

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Echo:

Southend Community Policing Team Inspector David Gardiner said: "If a group is gathered in the dispersal zone and they are involved in anti-social behaviour, or are causing problems or trouble for other people, then our officers have the power to order them to leave the area.

"Breaching any direction given under the order is a criminal offence."

Southend District Commander, Chief Inspector Ian Hughes said: "Last night's incident will have understandably caused concern for the local community.

"The behaviour of those involved is unacceptable and our Criminal Investigations Department is working to find those responsible.

"I want to reassure you that we are working alongside our partners, in particular Southend Borough Council, to address community concerns and issues of anti-social behaviour and deter activity like this from happening again.

"We will have additional officer patrols in the Thorpe Bay Gardens area and will continue to maintain a visible presence there.

"If anyone has any information about last night's incident, or has any concerns, please come and speak to us. We're here to listen and take action against those who cause problems in our community."