TWO men have been accused of being part of a group who threw bricks, rocks and wood at police during the violence in Nottingham last August.

Perry Atherton and Frazer Giscombe are on trial at Nottingham Crown Court accused of attacking police in Peel Street on August 9.

Atherton, 21, of Woodborough Road, Mapperley, and Giscombe, 22, of Perry Road, Sherwood, both deny a charge of violent disorder, claiming they were caught up in the incident which involved other people.

But Mark van der Zwart, prosecuting, said Atherton and Giscombe were involved in the disorder, which started at 8.50pm.

He said: "The Crown alleges these two were part of a much larger group, of at least 10 young men.

"Three police vans turned up at Peel Street. As soon as the convoy stopped there were a number of missiles thrown.

"The police got out of the van and the group started to scatter."

Mr van der Zwart said Atherton and Giscombe ran up Peel Street pursued by officers. They were chased into Birkland Avenue, North Sherwood Street and Mansfield Road before they were arrested.

Both were wearing dark clothes, and Atherton was also allegedly wearing a bandana.

Mr van der Zwart said: "The Crown say these two were dressed ready to be involved in disorder, hoping very much that they wouldn't be recognised by virtue of the coverings that they had."

Atherton told police he had gone out for a walk and hadn't been involved in any disorder. He said he had run off because he feared being arrested for something he hadn't done. Giscombe told police he was there, but denied causing trouble.

Witness Ronald McDermid was a passenger in a car being driven by his wife along Mansfield Road at 8.45pm.

Mr McDermid said in a statement that he saw a car turn into Peel Street, turn round and drive out again.

He added: "I looked down the street and saw a gang of at least 10 youths with black tracksuits and coverings over their faces.

"Some were carrying bricks and they were spread across the road walking in a confident manner.

"The way they were walking towards us made me think they were going to attack us. I told my wife to put her foot down."

PC Jody Leornadi told the court he was in a police van that arrived at the scene at 8.50pm. He said: "We came to a stop and we were getting missiles thrown at us. We had the mesh down on the windscreen and they were bouncing off the van."

PC Steven Craner said at least 80 per cent of the group had their faces covered.

The hearing continues.