POLICE IN CARRICKFERGUS, in Co Antrim have arrested four people following a disorder in the West Street area where The Alliance Party’s office was attacked and a number of officers were injured.

Approximately 1,500 to 1,600 people had gathered in the Irish Gate roundabout area earlier this evening in relation to a protest.

They were protesting against Belfast City Council’s decision to stop flying the union flag every day.

The majority of the crowd dispersed earlier however a number of people remained in the area.

Bottles, missiles and other masonry were thrown at police and a number of officers were injured.

The PSNI said premises in the West Street area were entered during the disorder. The premises were ransacked with substantial damage caused. An attempt was also made to set a fire which has caused smoke damage. Police attending the scene also came under heavy sustained attack.

A number of AEP rounds were fired and four people, two males and two females have been arrested.

Crowds have now dispersed and police are maintaining a presence in the area.

On Monday protesters at Belfast City Hall attempted to force open the doors where the council meeting on the flag flying took place.

Pics: Protests in Belfast as council votes to restrict flying Union flag>