England fans blamed over trouble

The population of Jersey is 10% Portuguese

Jersey Police say England supporters are to blame for what has been described as one of the biggest public disturbances on the island recently.

About 1,500 England fans brought Minden Place in St Helier to a standstill after Portugal's victory.

Police used CS gas spray to disperse crowds as bottles were thrown and Portuguese supporters were taunted.

Fourteen were arrested, most for public order offences, and two on suspicion of grave and criminal assault.

Most of the young officers who were there will never have seen anything like this before Lenny Harper, Jersey Police

It is believed trouble began in Jersey when people were trying to reach the Portuguese Club in St James Street.

The situation was brought under control by 0100 BST.

Jersey's population is about 10% Portuguese, of Madeiran origin.

Jersey Police's Deputy Chief Officer Lenny Harper praised the response of his officers.

He said: "It's a new experience certainly for most of our officers.

"Most of the young officers who were there will never have seen anything like this before and that says wonders for their professionalism, calmness and restraint.

"Police dogs were used, CS spray was used in situations either when police felt they were under threat and in one case when a section of the crowd was trying to break through."

Vingtenier Mitch Couriard, from St Helier's Honorary Police, said the incident was "shocking".

"There's been nothing like this in Jersey in living memory.

"It was completely uncalled for."