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Sixteen people hurt in 'pepper spray' attack at Edenbridge fireworks event

A woman holding CS spray.
A woman holding CS spray.

Sixteen people - including children - have been treated by paramedics after a suspected pepper spray attack at a fireworks event in Edenbridge.

The spectators were injured when the substance was sprayed during a fight involving up to 10 young men.

Those hurt are said to include children as young as 18 months and a pregnant woman, who reportedly passed out while holding a baby.

South East Coast Ambulance treated them at the scene for irritation to their eyes, nose and throat.

Kent Police said several police patrols were sent to the scene to prevent any further disorder on Saturday night.

One woman, who said her daughter was attacked with pepper spray, said on Facebook: "They sprayed a woman who was pregnant and holding a baby.

"The woman passed out and the baby wasn't too good."

Officers were called to the event, at Edenbridge High Street and recreation ground, at 7.20pm.

A spokesman said 16 people were affected by a substance - yet to be identified - that was being sprayed.

He added that no one was taken to hospital and inquiries are ongoing.

An effigy of Katie Hopkins was burned on the Edebridge bonfire last year
An effigy of Katie Hopkins was burned on the Edebridge bonfire last year

The fireworks event is the one of the largest in Edenbridge's calendar - and famously sees a celebrity burned on the bonfire.

Outspoken ex-Apprentice contestant Katie Hopkins "won" the dubious honour this year.

The burning of the effigy began at 8.30pm on Saturday in the recreation ground after a torchlight procession.

Businesswoman Katie, who speaks out strongly on anything from working mothers to parents who name their children after places, follows in the footsteps of other national figures of hate or ridicule chosen in previous years.

These include shamed cyclist Lance Armstrong, footballers Mario Balotelli and love cheat Wayne Rooney.

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