A fireworks extravaganza has been called off following a brawl which broke out during the first of what was supposed to be a series of scheduled summer events.

Organisers of the Broadstairs Summer Fireworks said they had postponed the event scheduled for Wednesday to allow guidance and support to be sought from police and Thanet District Council on how to move forward.

In a statement to its near-5,000 Facebook followers it continued: "As a small voluntary group that puts on these events with the support of Broadstairs & St Peters Town Council, Broadstairs Chamber of Commerce and local businesses we were shocked and saddened by the disturbance created by an idioitic small minority at the last event.

"It is as a direct consequence of this anti-social behaviour that we have sadly taken the decision to postpone the forthcoming date, in order to explore ways to prevent this from happening in the future."

The popular event had attracted thousands who came along to admire the display - but also a hardcore of trouble-makers intent on causing havoc at the harbour.

Following Wednesday's disturbance, Broadstairs Summer Fireworks Committee member Simon Abra says it was unlikely to continue if police recommended a high level of security and paid police presence, because it simply didn't have the funds to meet such a cost.

Mr Abra said: "We are consulting with the police as to what security measures will be required to ensure that everyone can safely enjoy these popular family traditional evenings.

"It is such a shame that once again in our society generally, that completely unacceptable alcohol fuelled behaviour by a minority of out of control mindless yobs is jeopardising the enjoyment of the majority.

"If the police recommend that we need a high level of security and paid police presence it is very unlikely that we will be able to fund the requirements and sadly we would have to make the disappointing and sad decision to cancel the planned summer displays."

Events had been planned for July and August, including live music with a fireworks finale at 9.45pm.

Read more: All the latest news from Thanet

https://www.kentonline.co.uk/thanet/