Eastbourne park police attack ‘does nothing for image of our town’ says MP

Caroline Ansell says she will be taking action after police officers and an emergency worker were assaulted when around 500 people gathered in the park on Friday (July 24).

She said, “This is a very worrying escalation in anti-social behaviour and the police have my full support in doing whatever it takes to stop a repeat of it in our town.

“We remain in the grip of a global pandemic and hundreds of people gathering and getting drunk in a park, putting themselves and others at risk, needs to end right now.

“It also does absolutely nothing for the image of our town, which is very peaceful and safe, when it is trying to get back on its feet.

“Those who want to act like this need to have a good think about their actions and I thank the police for their quick and robust response.

“I have now asked to speak to the local commander and I stand ready to do all I can to ensure these appalling scenes are not repeated as we enter the summer holiday period.”

Police officers were called to reports of a large party in Gildredge Park on Friday evening.

Sussex Police said there were approximately 450 people gathered in the park and, although a number were of ‘good nature’, there were four arrests for assault on an emergency worker and drunk and disorderly.

Two police officers received minor injuries, said police, a piece of sound equipment was seized and two police cars were damaged.

Police officers attacked and cars damaged in Eastbourne park

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