A summer of discontent

Police warn booze, sun and easing lockdown is ‘perfect storm’ for chaos

- BEN GLAZE

HOT weather, easing lockdown restrictions and reopening pubs could create chaos across the country this summer, police fear.

As the heat brings cooped people out on to the streets, and alcohol is added to the mix, police chiefs say it is a “perfect storm” for the disorder. Officers are braced for a surge in violence when pubs in England reopen on Saturday, after a series of mass gatherings and unrest across Britain this week.

Dorset Police declared a major incident after thousands flocked to Bournemouth. Three men were stabbed at the resort during a fight on Thursday. The men, all in their 20s and from London, were taken to hospital but their injuries are not thought to be life-threatening. Bournemouth beach was quieter yesterday, as police increased their presence amid an investigation.

A mass brawl broke out among youths at Ogmore-by-Sea, South Wales, as large groups gathered at the beach on Thursday, the hottest day of the year so far. In Brighton, police broke up a fight and arrested two.