Reform leader Nigel Farage has claimed "our country is being destroyed" after "machete fights" in Southend.

Last night, a viral video on social media showed a group of men dressed in black, engaging in what has been described as a "machete fight".

Further disturbing footage showed several people running across the seafront and High Street wielding "large knives".

The Reform leader, and MP for Clacton, has since commented on the scenes in Southend.

He said; "Machete fights in Southend tonight.

"Our country is being destroyed, our values trashed and the public on the point of revolt."

These incidents occurred as a "large influx" of young people headed to the city, reportedly for a beach party advertised on TikTok.

Unverified reports suggested that Adventure Island has closed its gates, and a pub alongside numerous shops had apparently locked their doors out of safety concerns.

During the incident last night, Essex Police confirmed that six people had been arrested and several weapons had been seized in the ongoing incident.

The force has yet to provide a further update this morning.

A Section 60 dispersal order, which empowers the officers to enforce stop and search, is in place on the Southend seafront.

This order, under Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, was invoked following instances of disorder on the seafront and High Street of Southend.

The order covers areas such as Marine Parade, Pier Hill, High Street, Western Esplanade and both of the city’s train stations.

It will remain in force until 8pm today.