Pair released after 'mass brawl' erupted on cruise ship

A man and woman arrested over a mass brawl which broke out on a British cruise ship have been released.

Six people were hurt as P&O's Britannia sailed to Southampton after a week-long trip to Norway's fjords.

A 43-year-old man and a woman, 41, both from Chigwell, Essex, were arrested on suspicion of assault.

Plates and furniture were reportedly used as weapons during the incident in the early hours of Friday.

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Good Morning Britain journalist Richard Gaisford, who was on board, said the violence occurred after a black-tie evening and an afternoon of "patriotic" partying on deck, when large amounts of alcohol were consumed.

Southampton, United Kingdom - April 29 2018:   The P&O Luxury cruise liner Brittannia in dock in Southampton
The P&O Luxury cruise liner Brittannia in dock in Southampton

He said on Twitter: "Witnesses told me they were so frightened they had to hide, as family groups fought."

Mr Gaisford said he had been told by a witness the incident was sparked by a passenger taking offence at another holidaymaker dressed as a clown.

However, P&O denied there was someone dressed as a clown on the ship.

Hampshire Police said its officers attended the ship when it docked in Southampton.

A police spokeswoman said three men and three women were assaulted, with their injuries including significant bruising and cuts.

The couple remain under investigation.

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