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All 3,000 police officers on duty over the Twelfth emerged unscathed from any trouble, it was revealed today.

Last year at least 24 officers were injured in violence in North Belfast alone, including one officer who almost lost an ear, and another whose finger was bitten by a rioter.

Tuesday’s Twelfth commemorations have been hailed as the most peaceful in recent years after no major incidents of disorder.

The chairman of the Police Federation, which represents rank and file officers across Northern Ireland, said he hoped the positive outcome would set the tone for future marches.

Mark Lindsay said: “From the perspective of the 3,000 officers involved, this was one of the most successful Twelfth days in recent years.

“We didn’t have officers hurt in street confrontations or standoffs, and that’s what we have been working to achieve. One officer was injured when he was knocked down by a vehicle in Coagh and I would like to wish him a speedy recovery.

“Loyal Orders, community groups, local politicians and statutory bodies worked alongside the police to achieve this result, and it is one I would like to see built upon.

“We can achieve much more as a society if we work for common goals.

“Officers are delighted with the outcome. This Federation worked on detailed contingency plans to deal with front line injuries involving paramedics, transport and a Wellbeing Centre and I’m pleased to report that on this occasion, a trouble-free Twelfth meant the facility wasn’t pressed into action.”

The contentious North Belfast parade passed off without any violence on Tuesday night .

There were skirmishes between residents in the vicinity of Brompton Park and police afterwards but these were quickly contained by the PSNI .

Assistant Chief Constable Stephen Martin, who headed up the PSNI’s Twelfth operations, paid tribute to police officers and support staff for how they managed the day.

He added: “They did a professional job ensuring that public safety was maintained, human rights were observed and that community disruption was kept to a minimum.

“Regrettably one officer suffered injuries when he was knocked down by a vehicle in Coagh and I wish him a speedy recovery. However, this one injury is in stark contrast to the number of officers injured on the Twelfth in recent years.

“Undoubtedly, from a policing perspective this has been one of the most successful Twelfths in recent years.”