Football Fans Clash With Police: 23 Held

Police have arrested 23 people after violence broke out between rival football fans in Staffordshire.

Officers were pelted with bottles and missiles following a highly-charged local derby match between Port Vale and Wolverhampton Wanderers.

They said two adults were treated for dog bites after police dog units were used to quell the trouble.

Staffordshire Police said they were “confronted by a significant group of home fans” involved in “violent disorder” who had gone out of their way to target police lines.

The force is now scouring CCTV from the day’s League One fixture, which away side Wolves won 3 – 1, in a bid to trace offenders.

Port Vale said it would fully back any police action against any of its fans involved.

After the final whistle, the trouble spilled over into nearby Burslem town centre in Stoke-on-Trent, where missiles were thrown at officers and a marked police car was smashed up.

There were reports innocent bystanders were also caught up in the melee.

Nine people were detained before kick-off while another four were arrested during the match for setting off flares and going onto the pitch.

Police said they were “disappointed” a “significant number” of fans had decided to cause trouble at the fixture despite lengthy preparation between club officials and officers aimed at preventing problems.

The force added fans from both sides had been involved but praised a group of Wolves fans who “co-operated with police by waiting in the away coach park while police worked to clear the area”.

Chief Inspector Dave Bird, of Staffordshire Police, said: “We are disappointed by the actions of this significant number of so-called fans who attended today’s fixture intent on becoming involved in disorder.

“All those arrested will be questioned about their actions and CCTV evidence from today will be examined by officers.

“The behaviour of this significant minority doesn’t represent the club or our city.

“We will now continue to work with Port Vale to reduce the opportunity for future disorder.”

Bill Lodey, Port Vale club secretary, said: “The club are bitterly disappointed regarding the violence that has been reported in Burslem town centre.

“We will fully support any actions taken by the police in apprehending those responsible and they can expect severe penalties.”

Football Fans Clash With Police: 23 Held