Almost 50 police officers have been injured after hours of rioting linked to sectarian clashes in north Belfast.

Water cannon was deployed on Sunday night after the officers were attacked with fireworks, petrol bombs and masonry.

Loyalists and republicans attacked police in the Carlisle Circus and Antrim Road areas during significant but localised violence linked to a republican parade.

Four officers were taken to hospital with various injuries. Only one remains in hospital and his injuries are not life-threatening, while 43 other officers were treated for various minor injuries.

Chief Supt George Clarke from the Police Service of Northern Ireland said: "I am both angry and sad that my officers have been subjected to such significant attack.

"They showed tremendous courage in the face of enduring violence."

At lunchtime on Sunday a large crowd congregated between the Belfast Orange Hall and Carlisle Circus.

A lawful parade had been organised but police had received no notification of a protest.