Seven in court after Jarrow street brawl

SEVEN men are due to appear in court following a broad-daylight brawl in Jarrow.

Police were called to Arran Drive at around 2.00 on Saturday to reports a group of men were causing a disturbance.

It was also reported a number of men had brandished weapons following a dispute with another group.

Officers attended the scene and seven men were arrested in connection with the incident and an investigation was launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the disturbance.

All seven men have now been charged with a range of offences following the violence, which unfolded in a residential area of the town.

Detective Inspector Sean McGuigan of Northumbria Police said: “This was an appalling incident which would have terrified those living on the street and anybody who witnessed it in the middle of the day.

“A group of men - who we believe to be known to each other - were involved in a violent disagreement in the middle of the street and were seen using weapons.

“This type of behaviour is totally unacceptable and can have a corrosive impact on communities.

“Our enquiries are ongoing into the cause of the disturbance.

“We have arrested and charged seven men in connection with the violence and they will appear before the courts.

DI McGuigan added: “My message to the community is one of reassurance.

“We know violent incidents like this can cause alarm or distress to those living nearby but I would like to reiterate this was a violent altercation between groups of men who were known to each other.

“I would like to thank the public for their ongoing support, especially those who came forward with information.”

All seven men charged are due to appear before magistrates in South Tyneside this week.