Two police officers attacked and 27 arrests during protest in Brighton

Two police officers were attacked and 27 people arrested during the March for England and the protest against it in Brighton today (Sunday 27 April).

Sussex Police said: “The March for England in Brighton on Sunday (27 April) passed without any major incident.”

Superintendent Steve Whitton said: “The main march and counter protest passed relatively peacefully, with smaller numbers on both sides than previous years.

“There were between 400 and 500 counter protesters and around 200 for the March for England.

“While there have been a few incidents around the city these were swiftly dealt with. There were a few minor injuries and one person who was arrested was treated at hospital.”

“Elsewhere around the city centre there were small incidents of disorder and there were people blocking the road to the station along Queen’s Road and Surrey Street.

“During this time two police officers, working as protest liaison officers, were assaulted.

“Although they weren’t injured they were knocked to the floor and had items thrown at them, leaving them extremely shaken.

“Thankfully there were no serious injuries and I am satisfied with the initial assessment of the way it was policed.

“However, I know there was disruption to the seafront and the city and it is very important we work in partnership with the businesses and city council to look at the impact it has for any future events.

“I would especially like to thank residents, traders and visitors for the their patience and co-operation and in particular our colleagues in local authorities, transport providers and other emergency services for their assistance.

“This was a significant policing operation but I am satisfied that the results show that it was proportionate and appropriate in keeping the city relatively peaceful and free from serious disorder.”

The march started at about 12.30pm on the A259 King’s Road at the corner of Middle Street and went as far as Pool Valley before returning.

Police officers from Sussex and Surrey were deployed on the operation with mutual aid officers attending from a dozen other forces, including police horse units.

Although the main operation ended at about 6.30pm, Sussex Police said that it would be keeping extra officers on duty in the area during the evening.

Sussex Police reported that 27 arrests had been made for offences including affray, assault causing actual bodily harm (ABH), having offensive weapons and other public order offences.