Dozens of terrified children were left in tears after a gang of armed youths stormed a cricket pitch in Merseyside and began fighting with weapons including knives, hammers and a garden spade.
The horrifying scenes unfolded during a junior training session at Maghull Cricket Club on Tommy Gent Way, Sefton, on Friday evening.
Around 50 youngsters aged nine to 13 had gathered for practice when violence broke out as a large group of teens arrived and began “organised fighting” directly on the pitch.
Brave adults rushed children to safety
Parents and club volunteers quickly stepped in as chaos erupted. Witnesses said children were visibly shaken and crying as they were ushered away from the area.
One mum, who was at the club with her eight and 10-year-old, described the ordeal as “truly terrifying”.
She praised the quick-thinking coaches and parents, saying: “The men and fathers involved did not hesitate to protect the children and get them to safety. You didn’t hesitate and it didn’t go unnoticed.”
Weapons brandished in terrifying stand-off
Photos from the scene show groups of youths — some on bikes — gathering on the pitch before violence flared. In one shocking image, a youth can be seen wielding a large hammer, while another clutches what appears to be a cricket stump.
A spokesperson for Maghull Cricket Club condemned the scenes, revealing the thugs also threatened each other with knives and a garden spade taken from the ground.
“More youths appeared, fighting and threatening each other with hammers, knives, a garden spade and a stump stolen from our practice area,” the club said.
“The 50 or so youngsters practicing had to be escorted off the pitch by our coaches for their safety, some in tears.”
Calls for urgent action as community in shock
The frightening incident has rocked the Maghull community and sparked calls for tougher measures to tackle youth violence in the area.
Maghull Sudell Councillor Phil Hart described the incident as “heartbreaking” and pledged to raise the issue at the highest levels.
“Our pitches and parks should be safe spaces for young people to enjoy sport, not scenes of violence and fear,” he said.
“I will be taking this very seriously with Sefton Council and Merseyside Police to push for urgent action.”
Club left devastated by scenes of violence
Maghull Cricket Club said the fight was the latest in a string of “disgraceful incidents” that have plagued the venue in recent years.
Locals voiced their support for the club in the wake of the shocking incident.
“This is very sad. Maghull Cricket Club is a great venue with great lads who love their cricket,” one supporter wrote.
Another added: “Hope this gets sorted and cricket can continue. The club serves its community so well and deserves better.”
Police investigation under way
Merseyside Police have been approached for comment but have yet to confirm details of any arrests or suspects.
Anyone with information about the violent disorder is urged to contact police or Crimestoppers anonymously.
