Shocked bystanders tried to break up a racist clash between two gangs on Brighton's packed seafront.
The fight broke out on Lower Esplanade at about 2.30pm on Good Friday.
Members of the public and a council seafront officer managed to hold back one of the suspects but he later got away.
Two youths were treated at the scene for minor injuries after the confrontation.
Police have appealed for witnesses and are particularly keen to speak to anyone who tried to separate the fighting parties.
Officers are treating it as a racist incident.
A spokesman said: "The seafront was extremely busy with visitors to Brighton and this was a particularly horrendous incident for all of the witnesses to it.
"The public should be able to expect to spend a peaceful day at the seaside without being subjected to violent scenes."
Witnesses should contact PC Arthur Ross on 0845 6070999 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
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