Northern Ireland

MLA warning over Portrush crowds following fight involving up to 70 young people

Portrush train station, where a mass brawl involving up to 70 young people occurred on Wednesday evening. Picture by Hugh Russell.
Portrush train station, where a mass brawl involving up to 70 young people occurred on Wednesday evening. Picture by Hugh Russell. Portrush train station, where a mass brawl involving up to 70 young people occurred on Wednesday evening. Picture by Hugh Russell.

An MLA has called for more police patrols in Portrush after a fight involving up to 70 people broke out in the town's centre.

The mass brawl occurred at the railway station on Eglinton Street at around 8.40pm on Wednesday.

An 18-year-old man was arrested and charged with disorderly behaviour and assault on police and is due to appear before Coleraine Magistrates Court on August 9.

It is understood that police moved a number of young people from the scene to Portrush Town Hall in nearby Mark Street before many were taken home.

East Derry SDLP MLA Cara Hunter described the scenes as "deplorable".

"This would have been a frightening experience for Translink staff who are already dealing with difficult circumstances during the pandemic. It would also have been scary for other passengers caught up in the fighting. My thoughts are also with the police who were attacked in the line of duty."

Ms Hunter said that while crowds returning to the resort town would bring an "economic boost after a difficult period for many businesses", she warned more action was required "before someone is seriously hurt or worse".

She added: "Given the recent number of incidents I will be contacting police to ensure that there are adequate patrols in the area to discourage repeats of scenes like this and allow the public to visit the area with peace of mind."

A Translink spokesperson hit out at those involved and said the "safety of passengers and staff is always a priority".