Donald Trump supporters and protesters clash in California

Donald Trump supporters leaving the presidential candidate’s campaign rally in California clashed with protesters, some of whom threw punches and eggs.

A dozen or more people were hit and car windows broken. Trump hats grabbed from supporters were set on fire on the ground and at least one woman was pelted with an egg.

Police stood their ground at first but after about 90 minutes moved into the remaining crowd to break it up. At least four people were taken into custody. One officer was assaulted.

The crowd, which had numbered over 300 just after the rally, thinned significantly as the night went on, but those who remained near the San Jose Convention Center were rowdy and angry.

Some banged on the cars of Trump supporters as they left the rally and chased after those on foot.

Mayor Sam Liccardo, a Democrat and Hillary Clinton supporter, criticised Mr Trump for coming to cities and igniting problems that local police departments had to deal with.

“At some point Donald Trump needs to take responsibility for the irresponsible behaviour of his campaign,”he said.

Ms Clinton and Democratic opponent Bernie Sanders also made campaign stops in the state yesterday ahead of Tuesday’s state primary.

Mr Trump, presumptive Republican nominee, spoke for about 50 minutes at the rally, sniping at Ms Clinton.