Two police officers were injured as "rioting" broke out when police shut down a Somali music event in west London.

Gangs of youths wreaked havoc as police officers were targeted with missiles while trying to disperse the crowd in Ealing on Thursday night.

Two police dogs were also injured in the melee after the £15 Somali “Wild n out” music show at Ealing Town Hall was shut down soon after 11pm because of overcrowding.

One organiser suggested some 2,000 people had turned up to the venue which can only hold 600.

A mob of youths is then said to have descended on nearby Longfield Avenue where rioting broke out.

Many were arrested as police fought to bring the mob under control, with extra support arriving from the Met’s Territorial Support Group.

The New Broadway and Longfield Avenue were closed off as buses were redirected while officers attempted to disperse the riot.

Frightened witnesses reported seeing scores of armed police patrolling outside McDonald’s at the junction with Spring Bridge Road. One Twitter user, Holly wrote: “There’s armoured police outside McDonald’s in Ealing Broadway it’s all kicking off.”

Another explained: “There was an event tonight, then it got locked off and like 1500 roadmans flooded Ealing. So it kicked off I guess.”

One of the event's promoters wrote on Twitter: “This event was my dream, it was going so well, never did I expect all most (sic) 2000 people to attend a venue that holds 600… I did my best.”

The concert featured Somali hip hop artist Solo LDN whose songs include Pirates and No Games."

Various attendees have taken to social media to praise the event itself and condemn the ugly scenes which saw it shut down.

Jay said: “The Somali wild n out was lit. It was fun, it was great energy and good vibes. Just a few idiots that caused the show to be locked off....”

One woman using the handle @hafsaaxo said: "The Somali wild'n out actually looked lit from the snaps, its sad how Somalis have to spoil it for themselves."

Another added: "I love my Somali people but it's like some people are glad Somali Wild n Out got locked off kmt, why can't we just support each other."

Police have not released a full breakdown of the arrests yet.

The two officers injured did not require hospital treatment while the dogs will be seen by a vet today.

Roads were eventually reopened at 2am.

A Met police spokesman said: “At approximately 23:00hrs on 22 December, officers were called to Ealing Town Hall, The Broadway, to reports of a disturbance.

“A number of youths had tried to attend an event being held at the town hall but could not gain entry because the event was full.

“Officers from Ealing borough attended. The decision was taken to shut the event down and disperse the crowds.

“The groups then descended on nearby Longfield Avenue where disorder broke out.”

He added: “A number of people have been arrested for public order offences.”

Enquiries continue.