Police appeal after trouble at Lake Street in Lurgan

They also revealed officers came under attack with stones and bottles thrown as they moved to intervene.

On a social media post directed at Lurgan parents police said: “Unfortunately the usual story has taken a dangerous turn. Not only are some of YOUR kids out drinking, and in a state we would rarely see at 1am on a Saturday night, but they’re now fighting between themselves.

“We’ve just broken up a large scale fight at the waste ground on Lake Street. Around 20 youths were going at each other, and as we intervened we took a fair number of bricks and bottles.

“This is in every way unacceptable. Anyone we get hold of who is fighting or throwing stuff at us will be going to custody. If they are young enough to give us serious concerns about how they were allowed to get in that state, we will inform social services.

“As it is, your child could be out there injured from excessive drink or a fight. Act NOW. Don’t wait until 2am tomorrow before you wonder where they are. If you aren’t sure where they are, get in touch with them and make sure they’re ok.”

They also posted a photo (see mian image) of a much smaller number of young people seen earlier at Tarry Lane.

“We want everyone to enjoy St Paddy’s, but getting a knock on your door by us telling you your child is in hospital, or worse, will ruin your life, let alone your day. It’s time to step up,” police concluded.