A RETAIL boss has condemned the behaviour of three men who were arrested by police following a fracas in Colchester yesterday.

Martin Leatherdale, who is the centre manager for Lion Walk, spoke out after violence unfolded yesterday afternoon.

The incident prompted six police officers to arrive on the scene and arrest two men and one boy.

The incident was dealt with by officers before 3pm, and Mr Leatherdale thanked the police for their efforts in quelling the disturbance.

He said: “There was an incident this afternoon where some unknown males became verbally and physically aggressive to members of my team.

“I understand at this time that the incident did not involve any wider members of the public and was dealt with very swiftly and robustly by my team and Essex Police.”

He then went on to add any sort of aggressive behaviour would not be tolerated.

“We are very lucky in Colchester city centre to have strong overt and covert police presence, and work very successfully and closely with Police and our security partners across the city.

“We have a zero tolerance to this type of behaviour and will continue to ensure Lion Walk is a very safe place to shop, if you come in to the city to cause trouble be under no illusion you will be dealt with.”

An Essex Police spokesman confirmed all three of the people involved were taken into custody.