Wigan man jailed for Southport riot is 100th Merseyside disorder conviction

The 100th person has been sentenced in connection with violent disorder in Merseyside last summer, marking a key point in ongoing efforts to address the unrest.
22nd January 2025

The 100th person has been sentenced in court in connection with violent disorder in Merseyside last summer.

Peter Fairhurst, 33, of Scot Lane, in Wigan, appeared at Liverpool Crown Court yesterday, Tuesday 21 January, for his role in the appalling scenes in Southport on Tuesday 30 July 2024.

He admitted the offence of violent disorder and was jailed for two years and two months.

Fairhurst was at the forefront of the violence and could be seen on CCTV footage throwing bricks at officers and police vehicles.

He becomes the 100th person to be sentenced following the disorder in Southport and Liverpool, with these individuals sentenced to a combined total of 200 years and six months in prison.

Detective Inspector Paula Jones said: “The 100th person to be sentenced is a significant milestone to reach, but does not mark the end of the road for our enquiries.

“You will continue to see arrests, charges and sentencings going through the courts on a weekly basis. We make no apologies for this, and we know the vast majority of people in our communities support the robust action that is being taken against these criminals who are convicted, locally and nationally.

“The scenes in Southport, Walton and Liverpool city centre were utterly disgraceful, and every single person involved brought shame upon themselves. More importantly, their actions caused further trauma and suffering to communities that were in shock.

“We will not rest until we’ve put everyone we possibly can before the courts. To that end, I’d continue to encourage anyone with information to get in touch anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Merseyside Police’s latest gallery of people who may have information to assist can be found here: Latest CCTV appeal in relation to summer disorder in Merseyside | Merseyside Police