THREE people are today facing police questioning after a violent brawl in an Ipswich street.

Lizzie Parry

THREE people are today facing police questioning after a violent brawl in an Ipswich street.

Two groups of people - some believed to be armed with hammers and knives - confronted each other at the junction of Marlow Road and Ulster Avenue yesterday at about 4pm.

Most of those involved were youths and three people have been arrested following the fight.

One is a 16-year-old boy from Ipswich arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and a public order offence in Antrim Road. Another is a 29-year-old man from the town, arrested on suspicion of violent disorder, possession of an offensive weapon and possession of controlled drugs in Lovetofts Drive.

The third is a 19-year-old male from Ipswich arrested on suspicion of affray.

The fight, which happened in broad daylight, was witnessed by local residents and bystanders on the parade of shops on Ulster Avenue.

One pensioner, who asked not to be named, watched the fight happen.

He said one gang of about 10 black males approached from Ulster Avenue heading towards Whitehouse Junior School.

Another group of about nine white males got out of a car parked near to the school and confronted each other.

Two boys were beaten to the ground and some of those involved were believed to be wielding hammers, iron bars, knives and screwdrivers.

The eye-witness said the incident has left him “terrified,” and hinted this is the latest in a long line of trouble in the area.

“It is nerve wracking, I can't handle too much more of this, it is not good for my heart,” he said.

“I was looking at the knives, it was really frightening, I am still shaking now.

“Bad things are happening around here, this neighbourhood is getting worse. There are always youngsters hanging round in gangs at night, near to the Co-op.”

He said the violent attacks happened very quickly.

A constabulary spokesman said the warring groups fled along Marlow Road and Connaught Road when officers arrived. Two BMW's were also seen leaving the area at speed.

A 19-year-old male was taken to hospital with head injuries but has since left hospital.

The police helicopter was scrambled while police dogs were employed to search for discarded weapons.

Detectives are appealing for information and want to speak to anyone who may have seen the two BMW's before, during or after the incident. Calls should be made to Ipswich CID on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Did you witness the incident? Call the Newsdesk on 01473 324790 or email starnews@eveningstar.co.uk.