Seventh person arrested over disorder in Auchinleck

Officers were called out to the Old Avenue area of Auchinleck on Saturday evening.

A seventh person has been arrested following large-scale disorder over the weekend in an East Ayrshire village.

The 34-year-old man has now been arrested and charged and is due to appear in Ayr Sheriff Court.

Another three men, aged 22, 28 and 39, two women, aged 29 and 26, and a 13-year-old boy have previously been charged over the incident in Auchinleck.

Police Scotland said inquires to identify others involved were ongoing.

• Man jumped out window to flee village disorder

• Riot police attacked by 'hostile' crowd in village

A force spokesman said the disturbances were thought to have been "planned and targeted".

One officer required hospital treatment after being hit by a brick.

Det Insp Ewan Bell, who is leading the investigation, described the assault as "completely unacceptable".

He added: "Unfortunately, during the incidents, some of those gathered became extremely hostile towards police.

"We have stepped up patrols in the area and anyone with concerns should speak to officers. We're committed to identifying those responsible and taking further action."

Footage on social media showed officers in helmets and carrying riot shields as they tried to break up the crowd.

Two homes were also badly damaged in apparent fire-raising attacks.

One resident told BBC Scotland News he feared for his life when violence broke out in his street.

Ch Supt Raymond Higgins said: "This type of disorder causes fear and alarm to residents and I would like to reassure the local community that inquiries into what happened are ongoing.

"We would ask that you do not speculate on what is going on here and allow our officers to carry out their inquiries. The community of Auchinleck deserve to live in peace and free from this type of crime."

Anyone with information is urged to contact the dedicated Major Incident Public Portal.