Teenagers among fans arrested following violent pitch invasions

A 13-YEAR-OLD boy is among those to have been arrested following disorder that broke out on the pitch at the Bank Holiday Monday clash between Chesterfield and Bury.
By The Newsroom
Published 27th Apr 2011, 07:00 BST

There were several pitch invasions during and after the League Two match at Chesterfield’s B2Net Stadium, during which Bury goalkeeper Cameron Belford was punched in the face and taunted by home fans after letting in a goal.

The yobs, some thought to be as young as 10, surrounded the 22-year-old footballer and one thug in a checked shirt was pictured punching him in the head.

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Belford kept his cool and Bury went on to win the match 3-2, meaning that both teams will be promoted to League One.

Yesterday, Derbyshire Police said a 13-year-old boy had been arrested on suspicion of assault while a 16-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of a public order offence in connection with the violence.

They have both been interviewed and bailed pending further inquiries.

A 38-year-old man was also arrested and bailed yesterday.

Inspector Russ Dakin, who was in charge of the policing operation for the match, said: “The behaviour of a minority of people in the ground yesterday was extremely disappointing.

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“We have started a post-match investigation where we will be looking at CCTV, photographs and other footage to identify people involved in these incidents.

“So far we have arrested three people but anticipate further arrests in the coming days and weeks.

“A number of people have contacted the police voluntarily having seen the media coverage.

“We are working closely with the club and rest assured anyone who is identified as being involved in an offence will be dealt with either via the criminal route or through civil or club bans.”

Officers have also asked anyone with any information about possible culprits to contact Chesterfield CID on 0345 123 3333.

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