Hull protests: What we know so far as police injured, travel disrupted and businesses targeted

A planned protest has led to disruption across Hull today.

Hundreds of people turned up to Hull’s Victoria Square today, with riot police soon needing to intervene.

As the evening progresses, fires have sprung up across the city, businesses are reporting damage and Humberside Police have confirmed some staff have been injured.

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As the protest began, many gathered outside of the Royal Hotel next to Hull train station. As a result, Humberside Police quickly closed off Ferenway, meaning buses had to be cancelled and surrounding businesses had to close.

Scenes soon began to get tense as riot police arrived. Videos circulating online show protesters throwing items at the police, and reports suggest that windows have been smashed at the Royal Hotel.

All trains in and out of the city have been cancelled, with Hull Trains issuing the following statement: “Due to police dealing with an incident at Hull all lines are closed. Train services running to and from this station will be cancelled. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.”

As protesters made their way out of the city centre, several fires have been reported in areas such as Spring Bank. One local businessman has witnessed a neighbouring business ‘destroyed’ as cars have been smashed and set on fire.

Several videos also show city centre shops such as ShoeZone and Greggs targeted by vandals.

Elsewhere, a doctor at Hull Royal Infirmary said doctors ‘can’t get home or to work.’

Earlier today, Humberside Police released the following statement:

“Four people have been arrested as a result of the protest that began in Hull City Centre this afternoon (Saturday 3 August).

“Officers will remain deployed and will continue to deal with antisocial behaviour and disorder and a road closure remains in place whilst officers continue to manage the incident.

“At this stage, three officers are believed to have suffered injuries.

Chief Superintendent Darren Wildbore said: “We currently have a high policing presence whilst officers respond to disorder that is taking place in the area of Ferensway following a protest that began this afternoon.

“Our officers have faced eggs and bottles being thrown and have made four arrests relating to public order offences. We have also issued a dispersal order for the area and there will remain a visible police presence as they remain in the area to protect the safety of those in the community.

“I can confirm that we have not deployed tear gas contrary to speculation in the media.

“I continue to advise members of the public to avoid the area at this time.

“If you have information, dashcam or mobile footage relating to the disorder, please call us on 101 quoting log 144 of 3 August.

“You can also anonymously contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

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