Four arrested during football supporter disturbance

Four people were arrested after various scuffles broke out between Stockport County and Hereford FC fans yesterday.

Clashes broke out between fans in Commercial Road and the Merton Meadow Car Park before and after the match at Edgar Street.

It was also reported stones and rocks were thrown at visiting supporter coaches.

Superintendent Mel Paley from West Mercia Police told Sunshine Radio News: "In order to maintain levels of service to Herefordshire communities, West Mercia Police will act on intelligence received when planning and policing an event such as this. West Mercia Police will always prioritise the public, their safety and the safety of staff.

"Responsibility for disorder such as we saw yesterday always lies with those who make the decision to be violent and put innocent people at risk and we will act accordingly and as such, four arrests were made.

"I would like to reassure the local community and the vast majority of peaceful football fans from both Stockport County and Hereford FC who were caught up in the disturbance that we always review our operational procedures to take away any lessons to be learned and this case will be no different.

"I would like to thank fans from both teams who travelled to the game yesterday, for their patience and understanding whilst we dealt with the unusual circumstances where a number of individuals were intent on disrupting what should be a safe and fun family day out."

Hereford FC director, Andrew Graham said: “Although it is too early to comment directly on this matter, we are aware of incidents away from the stadium before and after the match. We will be taking any reports we receive about this extremely seriously and will offer the police any help they request as they investigate these incidents.”