RIVAL gangs have been blamed for violence which erupted at Worcester's biggest fireworks display, resulting in nine arrests.

The bonfire night celebrations at Pitchcroft racecourse on Saturday were blighted by incidents of disorder and police want to trace a young black man thought to have been badly hurt.

A police officer and community support officer were also injured during the evening.

Offences included affray, assault, public disorder, resisting arrest and drunk and disorderly behaviour.

One of the organisers, Nick Close of Worcester Round Table, said that gangs arrived at the event looking for trouble.

"It was very unfortunate and appears to have been pre-planned," he said.

"There was clearly some thought about it, people knew the event was happening and turned up in groups.

"When we were aware of trouble we called the police and they responded extremely quickly to bring it under control."

There were reports of "gang warfare" in Worcester following the incidents.

One man, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "I heard people talking about a gang from Worcester meeting a gang from Malvern. There was a lot of trouble."

However, Worcester Police said they were not looking at a gang problem.

Mr Close added: "I did hear that there were groups from Kidderminster but have no evidence of that."

He said that the majority of the 8,000 visitors had a fantastic time and helped raise almost £20,000 in support of the Worcester News Make a Difference campaign.

A police spokesman said: "The man we wish to speak to was assaulted by one of those arrested. He is described as a black male in his late teens and it is believed he is a student at University of Worcester, or may have been visiting a friend at the campus."

Four males, four youths and one juvenile were arrested. Call 08457 444888 with information.