Leeds United fans ‘tried to kick police dogs’ after Blackburn match

Lancashire Police said a number of fans tried to kick police dogs and grab officers’ batons when trouble flared following the match at Blackburn Rovers.

The force has released CCTV images of several men they want to speak to.

Det Sgt Eric Halford, who is leading the investigation, said: “We cannot afford to let the actions of a minority spoil games like these for the true fans and to behave like this towards the police is wholly unacceptable.

“People need to know that if they come to Lancashire and cause trouble in this way we will go out of our way to ensure they are brought to justice so that we can maintain the safety of the attending families, supporters and our officers.”

The incident happened after thousands of Leeds fans saw their side lose 2-1 in the Championship fixture at Ewood Park on November 22.

Police said trouble broke out in the away section of the ground shortly after the final whistle.

Det Sgt Halford said: “Several thousand Leeds fans attended the match and the vast majority of fans were good spirited and well behaved.

“The incidents in question were very clearly down to a small section of the travelling Leeds supporters who took it upon themselves to target their anger at the police.

“Some of the individuals were acting in an extremely aggressive manner, trying to kick police dogs and pull officers’ batons. Fortunately, incidents like this are very rare but when they do occur we take a zero tolerance approach.”

He urged anyone with information about the incident or who recognises the men pictured to contact police.

Call Det Sgt Halford directly on 01254 353562 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 55511.