Wiltshire Police brand use of violence in Bristol protests 'disgusting'

Twenty police officers were injured, two suffering broken bones, and seven arrests were made after a night of violent protests in Bristol.

On Sunday evening (21st March), campaigners were demonstrating against the new Police, Crime and Sentencing Bill, saying it undermines their right to peaceful protest.

However, the action turned violent and neighbouring forces including Wiltshire Police were drafted in as officers from Avon and Somerset Police battled to keep the crowds under control.

Our repoter James Diamond was there

32 officers in total were sent from Wiltshire Police to assist.

The force confirmed to Greatest Hits Radio that none of our officers were among those hurt.

The chairman of the Avon and Somerset Police Federation has described those responsible as a "mob of animals".

Meanwhile, the Home Secretary Priti Patel tweeted: "Unacceptable scenes in Bristol tonight. Thuggery and disorder by a minority will never be tolerated."

On twitter Wiltshire Police condemned the behavour of those involved.

Meanwhile Wiltshire Police's Deputy Chief Constable Paul Mills has released the following statement:

"Firstly, my thoughts and those of every single Wiltshire Police officer, member of staff and volunteer, are with our colleagues and friends at Avon and Somerset Police"

"The scenes in Bristol last night were simply appalling and I know that the vast majority of our communities also condemn the wanton violence and disorder displayed. "

"The fact that officers were seriously injured for simply serving and protecting the public is disgraceful."

"We will continue to work hard with our communities here in Wiltshire and Swindon to engage and explain the current restrictions and the impact they have on policing events such as protests and gatherings."

John Apter chairs the Police Federation of England and Wales and is also a serving Hampshire police officer.

"The peaceful protest was without doubt hijacked by a hard core minority who were intent on violence, on hatred, on anarchy. In one situation we have a situation where an indivdual is trying to set fire to a police van with officers inside. That's not protest, that's attempted murder."