Battle to restore calm as second city endures fresh night of trouble

TROUBLE erupted in England’s second-largest city for the second night running with a series of outbreaks of disorder.

West Midlands Police said it was dealing with rioting in Birmingham and other areas of the region last night.

It came after the city became the first outside London to experience violence on Monday when up to 800 rioters tore through the city.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

A force spokesman said: “Police in Birmingham are managing a large group of people causing disorder in several areas within the city centre.

“A large team of officers are working in the city centre to restore calm and bring the city back to normality. Officers remain concerned that young people are being drawn into unlawful activity and encourage families and communities to contact their children and ensure their young people are safely at home during this period.”

A large group of hooded youths was dispersed from the Dale End area of the city after windows were smashed at a Marks & Spencer store. A car was then set ablaze in nearby Albert Street, where riot police formed a cordon to prevent youths returning to the main shopping area. A van was also set on fire in Bordesley Street where looters targeted a cafe, smashing its windows and helping themselves to food. Police said the trouble was on a smaller scale than Monday night when 142 arrests were made. Trouble also erupted in nearby Wolverhampton and West Bromwich last night.

A further 43 people were arrested yesterday in connection with Monday’s violence.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver was among those left counting the cost after Monday night’s violence in which 30 Birmingham city centre shops and other businesses were attacked by masked gangs.

A police station, on Holyhead Road in the Handsworth area of Birmingham, was set ablaze during the disorder.

The TV chef’s restaurant at the Bullring was damaged. He said on Twitter: “Sadly my restaurant in Birmingham got smashed up, windows all gone, whole area closed, can’t open, staff and customers all safe!! thankfully.”

Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg was booed by crowds who shouted “go home” during a visit to inspect the damage yesterday.