Drinkers at an illegal lockdown-defying lock-in have barricaded themselves in a pub after police officers arrived to break up the session, according to police.

Merseyside Police officers were pelted with beer and other items as revellers took up their fortified position at the Britannia Hotel pub in Liverpool, the force said.

There were reportedly more than 100 people gathered at the Vauxhall pub at around midnight on Sunday, playing loud music and disturbing residents nearby, although only “a number of people” were said to take part in the blockade.

Seven men and one woman, aged between 21 and 33, were arrested for violent disorder and drugs offences. No officers were injured. The premises surrendered its licence on Monday.

Pubs have been closed by law for the last three months to fight the spread of coronavirus, with Boris Johnson expected to allow them to re-open on 4 July, albeit with a range of new measures in place to protect customers.

“This is appalling behaviour and saddens me to see officers being put at risk from those flouting government guidelines,” said Detective Inspector Phil Atkinson. “Restrictions have been eased but by no means is this pandemic over and nor should we treat it like it is.

“Regardless of the current climate, throwing things at officers will never be accepted. Eight people were arrested and prosecution is likely.

“If government advice had been followed, we wouldn’t have had to attend this gathering and our resources could have been better used elsewhere. I hope those who both hosted and attended this event think twice about their actions and will avoid these gatherings in the future.

“In regards to the premises licence, officers have been in conversations with the landlord, premises licence holder and council.

“The premises licence has been surrendered this afternoon. I hope this also shows others in this industry that we will actively seek closure orders or reviews where necessary and those responsible will face punishment.”