POLICE are investigating if violent clashes between rival gangs of youths in Haydock on Saturday evening had been pre-arranged.

Officers were called to the disturbance on playing fields in Haydock after a large group of youths, believed to be from Parr and Haydock, became involved in a brawl.

It is understood that at least one one youngster was injured and needed hospital treatment. Police investigations are continuing.

Acting Detective Chief Inspector Chris Sephton, from St Helens CID, said: “It is certainly concerning for us if groups of youths are potentially arranging fights.

"And if it is going on, we will be clamping down on it.”