Police officers injured in Liverpool clashes

Officers in riot gear then gradually pushed protesters back towards the Albert Dock, as some of those in the crowd shouted abuse and claimed they were being victimised for “trying to protect our kids”.

Merseyside Police, which had introduced a Section 60 Order to increase its stop and search powers in the area, then brought in a Section 34 Order, which grants officers the power to disperse those engaged in antisocial behaviour, “to help combat potential crime”.

ACC Sims said one officer had suffered a broken nose, while another had been left with a broken jaw.

She said the protesters’ behaviour was “completely unacceptable”.

“What should have been a sunny Saturday on the historic waterfront to be enjoyed by people of all ages turned into an afternoon of unashamed disorder and violence,” she said.

“We have heard reports of families having to run away from the area, some of whom had brought children to see the Disney Princess cruise ship docked nearby.”

She added that her officers had “put themselves in harm’s way in order to protect the wider community” and she was “incredibly proud of the bravery, resilience and professionalism they have displayed”.