Officers were called to attend an incident where it had been reported that youths had been fighting with a hammer.

Police attended at around 1.30pm on Wednesday close to Dean Road in Scarborough.

The youths ran from officers, sparking foot chases and area searches. Those involved were swiftly gathered up and arrests made.

A spokesperson said: "We are aware that a lot of residents may have been affected, whether this is by the visits made during the Police investigation, or those who saw the incident. We have spoken to witnesses and have obtained CCTV. An area of William Street Coach Park was also cordoned off until the evening last night whilst Crime Scene Examiners gathered evidence.

"We would like to thank the public who have assisted with this investigation, and we want to reassure our residents that this was a dispute amongst a group, there are no other concerns in the wider neighbourhood.

"A 15-year-old boy from Scarborough has been charged with possession of an offensive weapon in a public place. A 16-year-old Scarborough boy has been charged with using threatening behaviour with intent to cause fear or provoke unlawful violence and possession of cannabis. A third boy, 16 from Scarborough, has been charged with using threatening behaviour with intent to cause fear or provoke unlawful violence.

"All have been charged to attend Scarborough Youth Court on Tuesday 9 July."