Eight People arrested after violence at North East football match

Eight fans have been arrested after violence broke out between two sets of fans during a North East football match.

On Saturday (January 27), police had to intervene after fighting broke out between Hartlepool F.C and York fans.

Coins and flares were thrown, including at a goalkeeper.

Police later confirmed eight football fans were arrested.

In a statement, Cleveland Police revealed what happened during the football match, which was held in Hartlepool.

A Police spokesperson said: “It became apparent from the beginning of the event, that there were a minority of people who were intent on causing disorder as officers were faced with confrontational and aggressive behaviour.

“During the game, there were several incidents including three flares thrown in the stadium and a coin thrown at the Hartlepool goalkeeper.

“Arrangements had been put in place to keep fans from opposing clubs separated, however, these arrangements were not observed by several York City fans, some of whom were wearing face coverings.”

Before and after, the violence was seen on the streets of Hartlepool, which the police have described as “intimidating”.

The police spokesperson added: “Officers were then faced with a large crowd of York City supporters in Hartlepool town centre who appear to have charged towards Hartlepool United fans in the town; something which would have been extremely intimidating and terrifying for members of the public to see.

“Cleveland Police Officers then worked with officers from British Transport Police at the train station to ensure the York City fans boarded the train without further disorder.