Darlington MP Lola McEvoy and Durham Police have slammed "sporadic pockets of violent disorder" that erupted in the town. 

Officers attended the North Lodge Park area on Monday evening after two large groups of mostly males gathered shortly after 9pm. 

Bricks were hurled at officers during the "small pockets of serious violence" - with Durham Constabulary confirming an 18-year-old  had been arrested on suspicion of violent disorder, assaulting a police officer and possession of a controlled drug.

Lola McEvoy has since spoken out over the incident, reassuring people that "violence and intimidation will not be tolerated in our town and those responsible can expect to face the full force of the law." 

Assistant Chief Constable Richie Allen also said the force "will not tolerate violent disorder" - adding: "If you were there committing criminal acts, we will do everything in our power to find you and deal with you robustly." 

A full statement from Ms McEvoy said: "I’m aware of the concerning incident around Gladstone Street and the mosque last night.

"I have been in regular contact with Durham Constabulary through the night and this morning, and want to commend them for their incredibly swift and professional response to keep people safe. I am relieved we didn't see the sort of escalation of violence we’ve seen elsewhere in the country.

"Darlington is a warm-hearted town that has long embraced people from many backgrounds and faiths, including our Muslim community. That will not change. Everyone who lives here must be allowed to live their lives happily and in peace.

"I want to reassure people that violence and intimidation will not be tolerated in our town and those responsible can expect to face the full force of the law. As the Prime Minister said, those who take part in thuggery will face arrest, remand, charges and prison.

"Our police showed last night that they are well-equipped to handle any situation. To further ensure public safety, officers in the area have been given enhanced stop and search powers and authority to order the removal of face coverings like balaclavas which are intended to disguise people’s appearance.

"Please call 101 if you saw anything last night that you want to report to police, or if you have any suspicions at all about people trying to whip up this sort of trouble."

Assistant Chief Constable Richie Allen, from Durham Constabulary, added: “What we have been dealing with tonight in Darlington has been sporadic pockets of violent disorder involving groups of people intent on causing serious harm to our communities and their property.

“We deployed a number of officers to the scene who worked throughout the night to disperse those involved.

“We were supported by officers from Cleveland and Northumbria Police and were assisted by our partners at the fire and ambulance service at the scene, for which I am grateful.

“We will not tolerate violent disorder in our communities. If you were there committing criminal acts, we will do everything in our power to find you and deal with you robustly.”

If you have any information that could assist in identifying those responsible for this disorder, please contact us on 101, or use the live chat function on our website.

Information can also be submitted anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website at www.crimestoppers-org.uk