Teesside community comes together to clean up Middlesbrough following riots
Groups have been working through the day to clean up the streets after the violence last night
Organisations and volunteers have been gathering in Middlesbrough today - to help clear up the mess left behind after violent rioters swept through the town.
Cars were set alight, windows smashed and objects thrown at police officers, with more than 40 arrests made so far.
But hundreds of people turned out on Monday morning, armed with bin bags, litter pickers and brooms, to begin tackling the mess and debris.
Assistant Chief Constable David Felton said: “Sadly, once again we’ve seen completely unacceptable behaviour in our community - this time in Middlesbrough, where yesterday, police and emergency services faced unprecedented violent disorder.
“Businesses, private property and vehicles were targeted, and violence aimed at police officers.
“Whilst enquiries into the criminal offences continue, I would like to reassure local residents, businesses and community groups that Cleveland Police and partners will continue to engage with them and to keep them safe. That is our absolute priority.
“We’ve already seen, first thing this morning, a coming-together of hundreds of people - residents, community leaders, local groups and organisations - to clear up the damage caused by last night’s disorder and help the town return to normal.
“It’s extremely heartening to see this strong and united response and proves most people in Middlesbrough will never accept the actions of those wishing to cause division and harm.
“I’d like to reassure the people of Middlesbrough that increased police patrols will continue in and around the town over the coming days and I’d urge you to speak to our officers if you have any concerns.”
Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke added: “The scenes we witnessed on Sunday have no place in Middlesbrough, and do not represent the diverse and welcoming town we all know and love.
“Violence and hate speech will never prevail here, or break the wonderful community spirit that is the very embodiment of this place.
“We also all owe a huge debt of gratitude to Cleveland Police who displayed immense bravery in the face of such mindless thuggery, and they will have our full support in bringing those responsible to justice.
“To see so many people who care about Middlesbrough and their fellow residents coming together this morning to help in the clean-up operation has been truly humbling, and that should be the abiding image people have of our town.”
And a spokesperson for Middlesbrough’s Interfaith Network said: “As Middlesbrough’s multi-faith communities, we reject and condemn hate in all its forms, which stems from division and fear.
“Instead, we collectively stand for compassion, respect, unity and love for each other.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Matt Storey said: “I would like to give my profound thanks to the public and local organisations for their efforts in cleaning up the areas of Middlesbrough affected by serious disorder yesterday.
“It’s a testament to the people of Teesside, demonstrating true community spirit in the face of violent thugs who seek to divide us.
“I again applaud the courageous efforts of Cleveland Police’s officers and staff, who worked so hard yesterday in extremely challenging circumstances.
“I have no doubt they will continue to investigate the violence, criminal damage and disorder that has taken place this week. To assist police in bringing offenders to justice, I would urge anyone who can identify those involved to contact the police.
“The people of Middlesbrough and Hartlepool have been shaken by violence on their streets and we must now look to repair the harm - both physical and emotional – experienced by these communities.
“I’ve been in touch with agencies and services, who are engaging with communities on the ground in both locations, to provide reassurance, support and advice at this difficult time.”