Police cars smashed in Morrisons car park during violent protests in Bolton

Two police cars were smashed during unrest in Bolton earlier today (August 4).

Opposing groups clashed in the town centre following a demonstration held under the banner of Enough is Enough. The arrival of around 300 counter protestors sparked chanting between the groups.

Missiles were later thrown in the direction of police. Groups also had to separated on surrounding streets after a sections broke away and confronted each other.

Both sets of protesters were later made to leave the scene after a dispersal order was issued by Greater Manchester Police. This remained in place until 10pm this evening.

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As crowds left the town centre, there were several more skirmishes and confrontations between the two groups. Derby Street was temporarily closed and a heavy police presence was seen outside Bolton Train Station.

After the dispersal order was introduced by Greater Manchester Police, one of the leaders of the counter demonstration was handed a megaphone by the force. He warned people to follow police out of the square or risk arrest.

Footage recorded today also showed several protesters attacking two police cars in Morrisons, off Black Horse Street. One hooded individual could be seen climbing on top of a vehicle, while another attempted to smash its windscreen.

Images in the aftermath of the incident show the back door of one of the squad cars had been completely smashed. It is not clear which group these individuals belonged to.

This evening, Keir Starmer vowed rioters would “regret” engaging in “far-right thuggery” after a sixth day of escalating violence in England as the Government announced