Three people have been arrested after cars were set on fire during large scale disorder in County Durham.

Police, believed to be in riot gear, were called to Malvern Fields in Seaham on Saturday evening to a gathering of around 50 people.

Officers responded to reports of people driving their own vehicles around the area and then setting them on fire.

Officers attended to prevent further disorder and arrested two men and one woman on suspicion of criminal damage and public order offences.

They remain in police custody while inquiries continue.

A police spokesperson said: “The incident resulted in a large police presence within the area around Malvern Crescent for much of yesterday evening and night.

“We would like to encourage those who have any information which would support the investigation to contact police.

“There will be an ongoing police presence in the area as we work with local residents to investigate the incident and prevent any further disorder.”

Community leaders have now called for calm while inquiries continue.

Durham County Councillor Kevin Shaw, who also sits on Seaham Town Council, said: “The police are dealing with a serious incident.

“People need to calm at this particular time until they have completed that investigation.”

Anyone with information or footage of the incident is asked to contact 101 quoting incident number 346 of April 27.

 

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