Police officers in Bristol were targeted with a hail of makeshift missiles as they moved to shut down a series of unlicensed New Year's Eve music events across the city and South Gloucestershire. The incidents, which required a significant police response, resulted in multiple arrests and the seizure of sound equipment.
Confrontation at St Phillips Industrial Site
Officers were first called to an industrial site in the St Phillips area of Bristol at approximately 11:15pm on Wednesday evening. Upon arrival, they discovered around 400 people gathered at the location.
As police closed nearby Feeder Road to prevent further access to the site, they came under attack. Items were thrown at both officers and their vehicles on the surrounding streets. A police drone was deployed to help track suspects, leading to two arrests. Enquiries into this incident are ongoing.
Multiple Illegal Gatherings Disrupted
The trouble in St Phillips was part of a wider spate of unauthorised events that police tackled throughout the night. Shortly before, at around 10:45pm, officers were called to a warehouse on the Aztec West business park in South Gloucestershire following reports of loud music.
An estimated 400 to 500 people had gathered there. A cordon was established, and the majority of attendees were dispersed by 3:30am. One person was arrested on suspicion of offences including drug-driving, possession of drugs, and drug supply. They remain in police custody.
Two vehicles containing sound equipment were seized from the Aztec West location. In a third incident, police were called to Purdown at about 2:25am, where at least 100 people were attending another unlicensed event. The music was switched off and the crowd dispersed by 5am.
Public Safety Warning from Senior Officer
According to police, several people who attended the events required medical treatment for injuries or suspected drug-related illnesses. Superintendent George Headley addressed the night's events, stating that additional resources had been in place to respond swiftly.
"We know some people accuse us of trying to stop people from celebrating New Year's Eve, but that is absolutely not the case," Headley said. "We want people to have a good time; what we don't want is people's safety being put at risk."
He highlighted the dangers of the unsuitable locations and the unacceptable behaviour witnessed. "Throwing items at police officers and driving while under the influence of drugs is also totally unacceptable," he stated, adding that the public would expect a strong stance against such actions.
Superintendent Headley concluded by noting that the hard work of officers meant some suspects would start 2026 facing the prospect of investigation and prosecution.
