Police officers were injured and a fire started next to an apartment building

Police have warned parents to “expect a knock” on their door after children cause trouble. Gangs of up to “50 children” – some of whom wore balaclavas – caused mayhem in Runcorn during Mischief Night, Wednesday, October 30.

Officers were called to Meadway, Hallwood Park and Trident Retail Park due to dozens of incidents of anti-social behaviour. These included a deliberate fire set next to a block of flats while residents slept inside with their families.

Police said this resulted in the arrest of a 14-year-old child on suspicion of arson. Other incidents included a police windshield being smashed, buses bricked, two police officers injured, rockets fired directly at police officers, injuring one, fireworks set off at a shop and fireworks fired at houses.

READ MORE: Body found in hunt for missing manREAD MORE: Police are chasing drivers who cut curbs and run red lights

A child was also arrested after firing rockets at police, spitting at a police officer and suspected of racially aggravated public order. Police said they had two questions for parents and carers – “what does your child really do when they’re out?” and “do you buy them fireworks?”

A spokesperson added: “We have hours worth of body worn video and CCTV footage which we will now review to identify suspects in the above offences, expect a knock on your door and to make an arrest.” They added that the children were “wasting” police and fire service time by responding to the unnecessary incidents.

We will bring you the very latest updates, pictures and video about this breaking news. For the latest news and breaking news visit liverpoolecho.co.uk/news.

‌

Get all the big headlines, photos, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you by signing up for our daily and latest newsletter. Follow us further Chirp @LiveECHONews – the official Liverpool ECHO Twitter account – real news in real time.

We are also on Facebook/theliverpoolecho – your must-see news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day from the Liverpool ECHO.