UGLY scenes of violence, rioting and looting have spread across London since erupting three days ago.

The trouble initially flared on Saturday night following a peaceful protest in Tottenham over the fatal shooting of Mark Duggan by police.

But by the early hours of today a large number of London boroughs had been left devastated by the trouble, with violence also erupting in cities away from the capital.

Scotland Yard said 334 people had been arrested, 69 people charged and two cautioned in connection with the unrest.

Commander Christine Jones said events were “simply inexcusable”.

“Ordinary people have had their lives turned upside down by this mindless thuggery,” she said. “The Met will ensure that those responsible will face the consequences of their actions and be arrested.”

Yobs took to the streets of Birmingham, Bristol and Liverpool throughout the night in copycat attacks.

More than 20 Suffolk police officers were today continuing to help with the riot-control operation after being deployed to the capital last night.

A police support unit comprising one inspector, three sergeants and 18 other officers was sent from Suffolk to help the Metropolitan Police in their ongoing battle to quell the violence.

In other developments:

- Prime Minister David Cameron has returned from holiday to chair a meeting of the Government’s emergency committee Cobra, who will discuss the riots.

- England’s friendly with the Netherlands at Wembley on Wednesday could be called off as a result of the violence; matches at Charlton, West Ham and Crystal Palace on Tuesday have already been postponed.

- Three people have been arrested on suspicion of the attempted murder of a police officer. It follows an incident in Brent, north west London, that led to a police officer being injured by a car while trying to stop looters.

- Have you been caught up in the chaos? Call The Evening Star newsdesk on 01473 324790 or e-mail starnews@eveningstar.co.uk