Cromer: Seaside town on 'lockdown' as series of crimes and 'disorder' plunge holiday resort into chaos

A seaside town reportedly went into "lockdown" as pubs and bars closed early as a result of what police described as "low-level disorder".

Several venues in Cromer, Norfolk, said they had decided not to open on Saturday and there were reports of new trouble on Sunday morning.

Yesterday, Norman Lamb, Liberal Democrat MP for North Norfolk, tweeted: "Very concerned by what I've read online tonight. Of course happy to support people in Cromer in any way I can."

Cromer Pier said it had closed its Theatre Bar on the advice of police, as did the Wellington pub and the Red Lion Hotel.

Norfolk Police said it had increased its patrols in the town but dismissed reports someone had been stabbed.

Officers were called to several incidents of theft, shoplifting and anti-social behaviour over the weekend.

On Saturday, the force said: "We have additional resources in Cromer tonight following reports of low-level disorder earlier today.

"We are aware licensees of local pubs have taken the decision to close this evening and we will have additional officers on patrol to provide reassurance to the local community.

"We are also aware of mentions on social media relating to a stabbing in the town tonight - we can confirm no such incident has been reported to us."

Locals linked the issues with the arrival of travellers in the area, though the police are yet to confirm if this is the case. ​

North Norfolk District council said a group of travellers in 23 caravans had now moved on from a car park on Runton Road.

Many businesses reopened as usual on Sunday morning,