Hampshire car meet turns hostile as police face crowd

A car meet in Hampshire escalated into a chaotic scene as police confronted a crowd of around 500 individuals. The event, which began at Winchester Park and Ride, involved reports of dangerous driving and public disorder, culminating in an assault on a member of the public. As the gathering moved to Southsea seafront shortly after midnight, officers faced hostility, with some attendees throwing stones at them. One individual was arrested on suspicion of drug driving during the event. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary reported that while not all car enthusiasts engage in criminal behavior, certain individuals displayed reckless disregard for safety. The police are currently reviewing evidence to identify those involved in the disturbances. The situation highlights ongoing concerns regarding large-scale car meets, which have been criticized for their potential to disrupt communities and endanger public safety. Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones condemned these gatherings, labeling them as a significant nuisance to law-abiding citizens. She emphasized the need for action against such events, which she described as both criminal and dangerous. The police have urged anyone with information or footage from the meet to come forward, indicating a commitment to addressing the issues that arose during the event. The incident reflects broader challenges faced by law enforcement in managing large crowds at car meets, where the line between social gatherings and unlawful behavior can often blur. Authorities are determined to tackle the negative aspects associated with these events to ensure community safety and uphold the law.