AN ARMED brawl between gangs with machetes and other weapons broke out on the streets.

Police were called to Hamlet Court Road on Monday night at about 10.15pm following reports of groups of people attacking each other including an alleged masked man using a machete in the fight.

The incident took place next to a car park at the intersection of Hamlet Court Road and London Road, which has become a particularly troubled area in recent months, according to residents and those working nearby.

An 18-year-old teenager from Harrow has been arrested following the incident on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon.

He remains in custody while police continue with their enquiries.

Officers arrested an 18-year-old man from Harrow at the scene, on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon. He is currently in custody while police continue with their enquiries.

One witness, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “It looked as though the fight was between two groups, there was at least one man with his face covered and a machete.

"It has got much worse in this area in the past few months, we have seen a lot of trouble especially in the evenings and through the night.

“I have seen people doing drug deals in the middle of the street at all times of day, they don’t seem to care who sees them. It feels quite lawless - I don’t feel comfortable walking around the area and I think a lot of other people would agree.

“It was a beautiful area once, but there are some serious issues that really need to be addressed quickly before these incidents spiral out of control.”

Councillor Julian Ware-Lane said: “Westcliff isn’t descending into anarchy but the reality is violent crime is becoming an increasing problem. Something desperately needs to change. I love this town, but we need to confront the issues we are faced with.”