Mass Brawl Erupts on Broadstairs Beach Amid Heatwave, Police Enforce Dispersal Order

A mass brawl involving up to 100 youths erupted on Broadstairs beach in Kent during a summer heatwave, despite police having issued a dispersal order to curb antisocial behavior. The fight, which saw topless teenagers trading punches as crowds cheered and families fled, was captured in widely shared videos and highlighted ongoing issues with underage drinking, fighting, and aggression toward shop staff. Police responded quickly, arresting a 17-year-old boy who was later charged with assaulting a police officer, but many participants had already left by their arrival. The dispersal order, which gave officers powers to remove troublemakers, was criticized by locals as ineffective, with some calling for community action to restore order. In a related incident, a gang of teens attacked staff at a local restaurant, further fueling public concern about safety and the authorities' ability to manage escalating disturbances. Police have pledged increased patrols and continuing efforts to make the area safe for residents and visitors.