Thugs brawl with officers

Cans and other missiles were thrown at the officers as the crowd tried to stop them driving off with the offenders outside Machynlleth Rugby Club.

Though the police were not hurt, extensive damage was done to a police vehicle during the fracas on Saturday night in the Tan-y-Bryn area of Machynlleth, police said.

Detective Inspector Ian Andrews urged any witnesses to the incident at Tan-y-Bryn or the earlier incident outside Machynlleth Rugby Club to come forward.

He said the initial incident took place at around midnight on Saturday when a small group of people were involved in a confrontation outside the premises.

"As a result of that initial confrontation at least two men received head injuries," he said. Police at the scene made inquiries and subsequently went to the Tan-y-Bryn area near the Celtica traffic island where they arrested four people.

"The police and persons in custody were then confronted by a large and threatening crowd of people who shouted threats, abuse and threw missiles at them. The crowd numbered 20 to 30 people."

He added: "The crowd was clearly attempting to prevent the departure of the police with their prisoners and shouted threats at the officers.

"The officers, concerned for their own safety and that of the persons in custody, were able to get into a motor vehicle and drive a way through the crowd that was blocking their path.

"Further missiles were thrown at the vehicle causing considerable damage."

DI Andrews said a man from the crowd was arrested following the second incident. All those apprehended had since been interviewed and released on bail pending further inquiries.

The rugby club has now suspended its Saturday night musical entertainment until further notice, a spokesman said.

Witnesses can contact police on 0845 3302000.

By Deborah Knox