Three police vans were driven into the area, but one was damaged, had its tyres let down and then a fire was built underneath it, burning it out completely as darkness fell.

In other scenes, officers with police dogs were seen attempting to hold back large crowds as demonstrators scaled the walls of the police station and threw fireworks.

Other videos and pictures on social media showed dozens of officers in riot gear guarding the entrance to the station and protesters trying to roll a police van daubed with graffiti.

Andy Roebuck, chairman of the Avon and Somerset Police Federation, said: ‘Disgusting scenes in Bristol by a mob of animals who are injuring police officers, members of the public and damaging property.

‘Avon and Somerset Police Federation are attending stations to support officers. We have officers with suspected broken arms and ribs. This is so wrong.’

Chief Superintendent Will White of Avon and Somerset Police said: ‘What started out as a peaceful protest has been turned by a small minority into violent disorder.

‘Officers have been subjected to considerable levels of abuse and violence. One suffered a broken arm and another suffered broken ribs. Both have been taken to hospital. At least two police vehicles have been set on fire and damage has been caused to the outside of the station.’

He added: ‘We have requested mutual aid from neighbouring forces to bring this incident to a safe conclusion.’


Rioters set police vehicles on fire as protesters clashed with officers in the shocking scenes last night

Demonstrators stand near a burning police vehicle during a protest against a new proposed policing bill, in Bristol

A demonstrator skateboards in front of a burning police vehicle during a protest against a new proposed policing bill, in Bristol, Sunday

A demonstrator gestures in front of a burning police vehicle during a protest against a new proposed policing bill, in Bristol

A vandalised police van explodes outside Bridewell Police Station, after protesters set it on fire


A demonstrator gestures near a burning police vehicle as two other vans arrive at the scene to drive protesters away

People watch a burning police vehicle during the protest, which has become violent with protesters attacking a police station

A vandalised police van on fire outside Bridewell Police Station, as other police vehicles arrive

Riot police, with police horses and police vehicles, move down Rupert Street in Bristol towards protesters

Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees condemned the violence which has marred a protest about the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill.

‘Smashing buildings in our city centre, vandalising vehicles, attacking our police will do nothing to lessen the likelihood of the Bill going through,’ he said.

‘On the contrary, the lawlessness on show will be used as evidence and promote the need for the Bill.

‘This is a shameful day in an incredible year for Bristol.’

He added: ‘The violence and damage that have emerged from today’s protests are unacceptable and have nothing to do with the real work we are doing to tackle political, economic and social inequality.

‘I recognise the frustrations with the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill.

‘I have major concerns about the Bill myself, which is poorly thought-out and could impose disproportionate controls on free expression and the right to peaceful protest.

‘It also misses as much as it includes, such as measures that could reduce violence against women and girls. We will raise our concerns.

Protestor uses a skateboard to protect himself from a police officer’s baton in Bristol during a confrontation Sunday

‘We have faced times of great confrontation, particularly surrounding Black Lives Matter and the events that followed. We have had numerous protests.

‘Our police, city representatives and I have been able to point out with pride that we have faced these moments of conflict without the physical conflict that others have experienced.

‘Those who decided to turn today’s protest into a physical confrontation and smash our city have robbed us of this.

‘What they have done has more to do with self-gratification than it has to do with the protection and advancement of those of us from communities most likely to be marginalised and mistreated by our political and legal systems.’

Thangam Debbonaire, Labour MP for Bristol West and shadow secretary of state for housing, said: ‘This is absolutely unacceptable.

‘The scenes of violence and direct attack on the police in Bristol city centre will distress most people including anyone who believes in defending the right to peaceful democratic protest.’

John Apter, national chairman of the Police Federation of England and Wales, said: ‘This is not about protecting the right to protest, it’s violent criminality from a hardcore minority who will hijack any situation for their own aims.

‘My colleagues, some of whom are now in hospital, face the brunt of that hatred. Thoughts remain wi