PSNI officers hurt in Down pub brawl

Two policeman were injured today as they attempted to break up a mass brawl outside a pub.

Two policeman were injured today as they attempted to break up a mass brawl outside a pub.

Around 20 people were involved in the trouble which flared outside a bar in Crossgar, Co Down, around 1.30am.

The officers were hurt as they attempted to calm the situation.

A police spokeswoman said one was kept in hospital overnight for observation.

READ MORE

Two men, aged 18 and 22, were arrested following the incident.

Duty Inspector Nigel Donnelly plans to meet community leaders in a bid to ensure there is no repeat of the incident.

He said: "The attack on my officers was unprovoked and an indication of how quickly a situation can get out of hand when too much alcohol is consumed.

"This kind of behaviour is totally unacceptable. "Of course people have the right to enjoy themselves but not if they cause injury and distress to others."

South Down MLA Margaret Ritchie condemned those involved in the incident.

Ms Ritchie said, “I understand this was a particularly difficult situation as a brawl broke out in a pub in the early hours of this morning.

“Police were called to separate the brawl but soon found themselves the target.

“People cannot target our emergency services in this way.”

PA