The independent local review set up to look into the cause of the Croydon riots has held its first public hearing.

The panel, set up by the council heard accounts of the evening of August 8, from two reporters and from Croydon Council chief executive Jon Rouse and council leader Mike Fisher.

Led by former judge His Honour William Barnett QC, the panel consists of Councillor Jan Buttinger, Pastor Damian Luke, Councillor Sean Fitzsimons and Stella Okeahialam MBE.

The inquiry was set up to look into what happened in the run-up to the riots, on the night itself and in the aftermath.

The panel will also consider why it happened and whether there are any lessons to be learned.

Despite receiving 175 statements from the public in response to advertisements asking for contributions, the deadline for sending a statement has been extended.

Mr Barnett said: "We have the extended time for a reply to supply a statement until 4.30 pm on Friday October 28.

"For we wish to ensure that no stone is left unturned in our endeavour to make sure the review is both thorough and fair."