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04 November 2003 - Football thugs get match bans A FOOTBALL hooligan from Rotherham is among five Barnsley "fans" banned from soccer games for three years after clashing with Cardiff police at a match. K*** B******, aged 22, from Rotherham and Barnsley men J**** D*****, 35, D*** S****, 38, J**** A*****, 29, and D***** L***, 35, all admitted public order offences. Cardiff Crown Court heard they clashed with police trying to keep Barnsley fans away from Cardiff City fans after the Bluebirds scored a late equaliser at a league match in Wales in February. Hywel Hughes, prosecuting, said a group of Barnsley fans had arrived in Cardiff by train at 10am, five hours before kick-off. Police took them to the city's Walkabout pub, which opened specially for them, the court heard. Then a double-decker bus was arranged to take them to the Ninian Park ground, said Mr Hughes. Barnsley were leading 1-0 until towards the end of the game when Cardiff City equalised, he said. Then a group of about 100 Barnsley supporters decided to leave the ground early, despite being instructed by a loudspeaker announcement to stay until they were released. A cordon of about eight or nine police officers was able to hold the away fans back and stop them leaving the ground on to Sloper Road, where Cardiff fans were congregating. An outbreak of disorder followed, said Mr Hughes, in which one police officer was kicked and another was pulled into the crowd. A wheelie bin and sections of metal railing were thrown at police. Taxi driver A*****, of Hoyland, Barnsley, and engineer L*** of Old Mill, Barnsley were involved in pulling the woman police officer into the mob of fans, the court heard. Plumber B********, from Rotherham, trade union activist S****, of Wilthorpe, Barnsley, and decorator D*****, of Monk Bretton, Barnsley, were caught on police video and identified as being part of the mob. All five denied violent disorder, but admitted an alternative public order offence. They were given football banning orders, which stop them from attending league, cup and international matches in England and Wales, for three years. Judge Roderick Denyer QC also fined them £750 each and ordered them to pay £250 each in prosecution costs. He told them: "Why blokes of perfectly good character with good jobs suddenly want to go out and fight Cardiff City I don't know. It is a mystery." Outside court Det Sgt Terry Lee of South Wales Police Football Intelligence Unit said: "This was a fairly major disturbance and quite a nasty incident. Hopefully we can send out a message that this will not be accepted." story 2 Reds thugs banned after police clashes A GANG of Barnsley football hooligans has been banned from every ground in the country after a clash with police in Cardiff earlier this year. 23 thugs were given three-year banning orders and many were ordered at Cardiff Crown Court to pay fines or costs after troubled flared at a match in February this year. The fans made a charge for the stadium exit to beat police blocks shortly before the end of the fixture. There was a scuffle with officers and many Barnsley fans were arrested for public order offences. Of 16 Cardiff fans arrested for trouble in the city centre after the game, 12 were convicted and received banning orders. The Barnsley fans, aged between 21 and 40, can now "no longer enter within 2,000 metres of any regulated football match in the period of five hours before kick-off and five hours after the final whistle". Fans who breach the order can be arrested and brought back before the courts. Chief Insp Keith Lumley, of South Yorkshire Police, said: "We won't tolerate anyone who wants to spoil these family events through violence. "On every occasion, in Barnsley or anywhere in the country, hooligans can expect to go before court. "There have been about 30 banning orders imposed in Barnsley as a result of our zero tolerance policy in the last 18 months. "There are quite a few problems with hooligans throughout the country at the moment. But the majority of fixtures in Barnsley this season have been police-free – no officers were needed. "That just shows that by taking the hooligans away from the matches through the action we have taken, there is a drop-off in violence." 12 February 2003 Reds thugs in clashes FOOTBALL violence erupted when Barnsley fans were involved in running battles with rival supporters in the streets of Cardiff. Three people were arrested after fighting flared before Barnsley's match with Cardiff City in the Welsh capital. Innocent shoppers fled as police grabbed the men who were arrested before the match began when disturbances occurred on a busy street in the city centre. A 26-year-old Cardiff man was arrested for violent disorder and another male, aged 35, also from the home city, was arrested for a public order offence. South Wales Police also arrested a 33-year-old Barnsley man in connection with a drugs offence. A fourth, a man in his early 20s, from Cardiff, was arrested during the match, also on a drugs offence. Supt Kevin Tumelty said: "Police responded positively to the earlier incident of public disorder, which was resolved by the prompt action of officers on duty in St Mary's Street. "The majority of games this season have passed without incident and it is disappointing that a small number of hooligans, from both Cardiff and Barnsley, were openly seeking confrontation with one and other. "The game itself passed without any incident and there were no further arrests." The skirmishes follow major problems in Barnsley in November when Cardiff played at Oakwell, Trouble flared as police chiefs mounted their biggest ever operation in the town centre for a football match - with around 300 Barnsley officers on duty. But tempers boiled and violence broke out on the streets and extra riot squad officers were drafted in from West Yorkshire. Six fans were arrested. Officers said a number of Cardiff fans arrived in the town "determined to look for and cause trouble" and riot squad police were deployed inside the ground at pitchside to try to contain them. Eldon Street and Pontefract Road were both closed for some time because of the amount of broken glass littering the road and to allow emergency vehicles to get through. After the match fans, described by police as "volatile and aggressive", again clashed with police at a number of locations in the town centre. During the match four Cardiff fans were charged with either invading the pitch or being drunk and disorderly. n Did you witness any of the violence? Ring The Star news desk on 0114 2521346 or 01226 284243. 13/11/02 Barnsley-Cardiff BARNSLEY football fans today criticised policing methods at Saturday's clash against Cardiff and claimed much of the violence was caused be their heavy handed tactics. And the manager of a pub at the centre of some of the worst problems alleged: "The police started it." More than 300 police officers were on duty for a match police intelligence reports had warned could lead to street violence and which saw riot police and fans clashing in the town centre. Today some of the fans who were in The Room public house on Eldon Street claim violence only broke out before kick off after they were trapped inside the pub by riot squad police. Police deny being aggressive or confrontational. Locals say police vans were used to block off emergency exits and riot shields pressed against doors and windows to cage the fans inside. And the manager of The Room, Fiona Thomas, said: "There was absolutely no trouble whatsoever until all these police in riot gear surrounded the pub, blocked off doors and windows and turned everyone inside into a prisoner. "Even members of staff could not get out, people were trapped inside for almost an hour. "They only set the toilets alight to try to force the police to move back and allow people to leave. Neither myself nor any member of staff felt threatened in any way- until the police arrived and then it was just terrible." The Room was badly damaged by smoke caused by that fire and will not re-open until Friday when repairs will be finished. Today police denied they had used heavy handed tactics and said they had responded to the "violence and intimidation" shown by a hard core of people. They also insisted no matter how frustrated fans might have been, it was no excuse for the violence that broke out. A Barnsley police spokesman said: "There were tactical policing reasons for containing those fans at that time. Even if they did not wish to remain inside the pub that cannot excuse the violence that then broke out. "I would also question the motives and logic of anyone who deliberately starts a fire." story 2 Soccer yobs in street riot SOCCER violence erupted in Barnsley when yobs clashed with riot police. Officers in riot gear surrounded The Room pub in Eldon Street where Barnsley fans had set the toilets ablaze before Saturday's match against Cardiff. The main road outside was also closed. Trouble flared as police chiefs mounted their biggest ever operation in the town centre for a football match - with around 300 Barnsley officers on duty. But tempers boiled and violence broke out on the streets and extra riot squad officers were drafted in from West Yorkshire. Six fans were arrested and senior police officers today said they were "satisfied" with how they had dealt with the violence - and vowed more arrests will follow. Officers say a certain number of Cardiff fans arrived in the town "determined to look for and cause trouble" and riot squad police were deployed inside the ground at pitchside to try to contain them. Eldon Street and Pontefract Road were both closed for some time because of the amount of broken glass littering the road and to allow emergency vehicles to get through. Some local fans and police also claimed Leeds and Huddersfield supporters mingled with home fans, determined to cause trouble. Today police are trawling through CCTV footage to identify those in the centre of the worst violence and football intelligence officers from Leeds and Huddersfield will be used to identify the troublemakers. Action is also being threatened against some Cardiff coach drivers who ignored police orders and dropped passengers off in Sheffield Road to allow them to walk past and taunt Barnsley fans on their way to the ground. After the match fans, described by police as "volatile and aggressive", again clashed with police at a number of locations in the town centre. Inspector Graham Leckey said: "We have never had a police operation of this size and we are satisfied with how we dealt with a very difficult situation. "The intelligence we received had indicated there were a large number of people coming to Barnsley determined to cause violence and trouble on Saturday and sadly that proved to be correct and all those police officers on duty were needed." 05 November 2002 Hooligans in police clash BARNSLEY fans were among 300 hooligans who attacked police and tried to turn Sheffield city centre into a battlefield during the latest escalation of football violence. Police with riot shields had to use "stern methods" to break up gangs of rival hooligans as they came under attack from a barrage of bottles and missiles. The action prevented a large-scale pitched battle, but outbreaks of violence continued until the early hours of the morning. The Barnsley yobs had headed for Sheffield on their way to the club's away game at Chesterfield, but police say some remained in the city drinking rather than travelling on to the match There were also some Derby fans who had travelled with no intention of attending the Owls match. Sheffield United fans joined in clashes on their return from Nottingham. The main trouble happened between 6 and 8pm on Saturday in the Campo Lane area. The police helicopter monitored the movements of hooligans. Supt Martin Hemmingway, who oversaw the operation, said: "There were confrontations across the city centre, and officers had to use riot shields to protect themselves. It is very damaging for the reputation of Sheffield." Police made eight preventative arrests as they kept rival factions apart, and five were arrested at an incident in the Casbah club, where one person was seriously hurt in an assault. Officers also assisted doormen at the Brighton Beach event at Sheffield City Hall, to ensure those involved in stirring up trouble were unable to get inside. Senior officers are planning to have large numbers of police available for the potentially explosive cup clash between Sheffield United and Leeds United at Bramall Lane on Wednesday evening. 01 October 2002 Football thugs in police attack MOUNTED police came under a hail of missiles from football yobs after Barnsley's home defeat against Wigan. A gang of around 100 Wigan fans clashed with police underneath the fly-over near the Jumble Lane crossing. At the same time a group of Barnsley fans, who were being kept away from the rival gang, turned on the mounted officers, hurling bricks and stones at them. Four fans were arrested and police today confirmed they are considering taking action against some of the coach drivers that brought the away fans into town. Inspector Graham Leckey said the trouble flared when a large group of Wigan fans failed to get on to coaches at the end of the game, in which the Reds were beaten 3-1. Instead the Wigan fans headed into the town centre where they were apparently being met by locals. Insp Leckey said: "We did manage to keep them apart, but the Barnsley fans in particular turned very nasty and rounded on the mounted police. "We will be seeking to identify those involved in that particular group of Barnsley fans. We are also very concerned because at least one double decker coach travelling from Wigan did not bring those fans straight to Oakwell as they were supposed to do. "Instead some fans were dropped off at a pub in Darton where they were drinking before making their way via public transport to the ground. "The attitude of those that gathered close to Jumble Lane was they did not wish to be policed, they thought they could behave in any way they wanted. "They rounded on the mounted police, hurling missiles at them. "We are not prepared to put up with behaviour like that and when we identify those responsible we will take firm action." 21 August 2002 Arrests rise as Barnsley tackle yobs A SENIOR police officer has hailed the rise in arrests of Barnsley football fans as a triumph for the force - but warned trouble could flare this season. Figures show that at League matches last year there were 44 arrests of Barnsley supporters compared to 38 the year before. There were 46 arrests of Barnsley supporters at all matches - 34 at home and 12 away, with one arrest for violent disorder, 18 for public disorder, three for racist chanting, three for running on the pitch, 13 for alcohol offences and eight others. Insp Graham Leckey said he believed there were a further 10 arrests at Oakwell for crimes including ticket touting, fraudulently obtaining tickets and burglary. But he said the figures were low compared to the third of a million people who attended Oakwell last year. And the slight rise in arrests could be attributed to better targeting of resources and intelligence. He said: "I don't think disorder in itself has increased, we are a lot more proactive and work more closely with clubs and stewards to identify possible troublemakers such as those trying to enter the ground drunk." But he warned a police drive to make clubs pay more for match day policing had already seen fewer resources deployed as Barnsley FC looked to make savings. The club is in tighter financial straits after relegation to Division Two and the loss of television money following the collapse of ITV Digital. Traffic wardens were not used for the first time when Barnsley played Leeds at a home friendly on Saturday. Insp Leckey said at the same time there was a lack of intelligence on clubs in Division Two because Barnsley had never played them. He added: "The mentality of fans in lower division clubs is different, they are not used to being as well policed or stewarded and our presence will be scaled down. They are an unknown quantity. We've had no previous contact with Mansfield, Cheltenham and Swindon for example. "At Leeds on Saturday there were a lot of families and younger kids and we want to encourage that. "But if violence, bad language and drunkeness increase those people will be driven away and create difficulties because we will be forced to increase police resources and that has a knock-on effect on costs." He added that policing was a balancing act and some matches would be virtually police-free this season, with crowd control being handled by stewards. But there would be a significant presence when Cardiff came to Barnsley on November 9. The Welsh club has recently developed a reputation for hooliganism including a high profile home clash with Leeds fans. Yesterday's figures also showed seven Barnsley supporters received banning orders which prevented them from travelling to the World Cup in Japan. They were forced to surrender their passports. All had previous hooligan convictions or were suspected by police of planning violence. Sheffield Wednesday v Barnsley 21/04/2001 - Nationwide League Division One Prior to the game, a group of Sheffield supporters attempted a confrontation with the visiting group. Missiles were thrown, but order was restored by police. After the game, police prevented confrontation with rivals on the outer concourse and mounted police dispersed a group of Sheffield supporters. The Barnsley supporters were escorted out of the city. Disorder Barnsley Town Centre 19/08/00 70 Huddersfield Town supporters left Sheffield Town Centre, believed to be on the way home to Huddersfield. The train had to pass through Barnsley Station. On arrival at Barnsley, there were a group of Barnsley supporters waiting on the platform. The Barnsley group jeered and one was seen to kick out at one of the train doors. Fortunately BTP officers were on the train and prevented anyone from getting off. The train quickly moved out of the station; however, as it reached the next station, 30 of the Huddersfield supporters got off and made their way back into Barnsley Town Centre. In the town centre the Huddersfield supporters were attacked by a group of Barnsley supporters. A Huddersfield supporter was punched in the face and knocked unconscious. Police were quickly on the scene and prevented the situation from escalating.

Jan 12th 2004 Yorkshire soccer fans facing Euro 2004 ban BY DAVID BRUCE MORE than 100 West Yorkshire football hooligans are expected to be banned from travelling to the Euro 2004 championships. Eighty soccer thugs are already barred from attending designated domestic matches and international games. West Yorkshire Police announced today they are targeting a further 20-plus individuals who are suspected of being involved in football violence in the county. Police chiefs said that they will be asking magistrates to issue Football Banning Orders to prevent them causing any mayhem at the Championships. Magistrates The Government has provided additional funding to carry out the new operation in West Yorkshire, which will continue until the end of the three-week-long tournament. The first cases are expected to be brought before magistrates within a few weeks. Det Supt Gary Baker, of West Yorkshire Police, said they were very involved in preventing English fans causing disorder at the forthcoming European Championship tournament which starts in Portugal in June. He added: "We are currently gathering evidence against at least 20 individuals who are suspected of being involved in football violence in the county. "We will seek to obtain Football Banning Orders to prevent violence or disorder at, or in connection with, football matches by making an application to the Magistrates' Court to prevent those people attending future football matches, including those involving the England team. "We are working closely with other forces, local clubs and the government to ensure the European Championships will be trouble free. This includes the Football Supporters Federation and FA. "We have received additional financial support from the Home Office to carry out this operation, which will continue until the end of the Championships." Det Supt Baker said that most England football supporters were law abiding, pointing out that matches played in England and Wales last year attracted 33 million fans, of whom only 0.01 per cent were arrested. He warned: "Those who are involved in football related violence should be aware that we are investigating their activities and we will not tolerate any football hooliganism." Those made subject of Football Banning Orders are required to attend a local police station in the five days before an international game – and hand in their passports. The move in West Yorkshire is part of a concerted, nationwide effort to stamp out hooliganism at the high-profile championships. david.bruce@ypn.co.uk Train hit by soccer yobs at station Dec 15 2003 By The Huddersfield Daily Examiner A MOB of soccer yobs ambushed a train and hurled missiles at the windows. British Transport Police believe Huddersfield Town followers were to blame. The train, which carried a mixture of Bradford City supporters and shoppers, was immediately taken out of service. Police are appealing for information about the attack on the Manchester to York train as it pulled into Halifax Station at 10.30pm on Saturday night. A group of about 30 men, believed to be Huddersfield Town supporters waiting on the platform, threw bricks and bottles. Eight windows were smashed. Huddersfield Town played at Macclesfield on Saturday while Bradford's game was at Wigan. A spokesman said officers were studying CCTV footage. Bradford v Aberdeen July 2003 Nine arrests in city soccer thug raids by Steve Wright Suspected hooligans who clashed with rival fans during a pre-season football tournament were in custody today after police carried out dawn raids across Bradford. An accountant was among nine people arrested as police targeted the homes of soccer yob suspects. Dozens of officers swooped on up to 20 homes in co-ordinated raids which began shortly after 6am. The crackdown, codenamed Operation Olive, aimed to detain suspected thugs from Bradford who fought with Aberdeen fans in the city centre during City's Centenary Tournament in July. More than 100 hooligans were involved in the violence on Ivegate on the afternoon of Saturday, July 26, the first day of the tournament, which was billed as a family event. Bottles and hoardings were thrown and a police dog was injured when the windscreen of a police van was smashed as officers restored order. Twelve people were arrested on the day and a further nine arrests were made after more than 20 hooligans from the two clubs brawled in Manningham Lane on the same afternoon. Today's operation - involving about 60 officers from Bradford, the Operational Support Unit and Task Force - targeted suspects identified from CCTV footage of the violence in Ivegate and film taken of the disorder by police. Four-strong teams of officers swooped on addresses across Bradford and two in Pudsey and Leeds to detain 14 suspects, mostly linked to the Bradford City hooligan Ointment gang. The raids included one at a neat, semi-detached house in Wrose, where a shaven-headed man in his mid-20s was led away in handcuffs. A curly-haired man in his 40s was arrested at a stone-built end terraced house in Allerton. By mid-morning nine people had been held and inquiries were ongoing to trace five more, with the number of arrests expected to rise. They were being held at Bradford Central police station. Those detained included an accountant, a builder, a window fitter and a machine operator. They were expected to be interviewed all day and police were hoping to charge and bail them later. Chief Inspector David Lunn, in charge of the operation, said police would not accept the serious organised violence that took place in Ivegate. He said: "Our message is that Bradford City football club and West Yorkshire Police will not tolerate such behaviour. It is unacceptable. At the end of the day people have died through football violence. It must stop now." Chief Insp Lunn said violence had moved away from the grounds to city centres, with a knock-on effect for other people. He added: "We want Bradford to be a safer place for people to come to and we won't allow football hooligans to disrupt people going about their business." Seven Aberdeen fans have been identified after West Yorkshire Police sent posters of suspects to Scotland. story 2 First published on Thursday 06 November 2003: Eight jailed over football violence Eight Bradford men have been jailed for their part in clashes with visiting football fans in Bradford city centre. They were also banned from all football matches for periods ranging from six to seven years, as the police and Crown Prosecution Service sought a new crackdown on football-related violence. The city's magistrates court heard how punches and kicks were exchanged when Bradford City fans clashed with Aberdeen supporters in Ivegate on July 26. The match was part of City's Centenary Tournament. Sentencing some of those involved yesterday district judge David Thomas said the incident - which lasted only 37 seconds - blighted the city which had suffered from riots in July 2001. He said: "Bradford has had its share of problems in the last few years and, while this was not like the events of 2001, incidents of this nature bring discredit on the city. "This was a serious city centre incident, fortunately nipped in the bud by the prompt action of the police." The citizens of Bradford were entitled to walk the streets in safety without having to face such incidents perpetrated by "supposed football supporters" who were really "hooligans", he added. Malcolm Christy, prosecuting, said all the defendants were in a group walking uphill and some Aberdeen fans came downhill towards them. During the brief confrontation that followed, fighting broke out and advertising boards were thrown through the air before police officers moved in to separate the two groups. Pleading guilty to violent disorder were: D***d H******l, 35, of Chellow Grange, who was jailed for five months and banned for seven years; C***g B*********n, 31, Wrose, jailed for four months and banned for six years; A*****y ********l, 37, of Horton Bank Top, jailed for four months and banned for six years; J****** B***n, 22, of Odsal, jailed for three months and banned for six years; J***** G*****t, 28, of Brown Royd, jailed for three months and banned for six years; T****** C*****, Wibsey, jailed for three months and banned for six years; R***** L**, 24, of Low Moor, jailed for three months and banned for six years; N*** S*****, 34, Oakwood, jailed for three months and banned for seven years, plus a further two months consecutive for unrelated driving offences. Also pleading guilty to violent disorder were: C********r M******l, 34, of West Bowling, 160-hour community punishment order and banned for three years; J**n S*****, 39, of Allerton, 12-month community rehabilitation order and 80-hour community punishment order and banned for three years. C*********r C***, 24, of Allerton, pleaded guilty to violent disorder and was released on bail until November 27, for a pre-sentence report to be prepared. P**l W*******n, 30, of Wrose, pleaded guilty to using threatening behaviour and was given a 160-hour community punishment order and was banned for three years. P****p S*****, 36, of Idle, had a charge of using threatening behaviour discontinued by the prosecution. story 3 (sorry) City yobs for rent by Drew Kendell Football hooligans in Bradford are using "rent-a-thug" reinforcements to compete with rival mobs, it was revealed today. It is thought Bradford City's hooligan "firm" - known as the Ointment - stands at about 30-strong, but police believe they can double or even treble their strength by drawing on a pool of outsiders. More than 50 thugs from the city are believed to have been involved in violence at a tournament 10 days ago. Officers suspect the new faces are not regular attenders but are brought in when the potential for large-scale disorder arises. Football intelligence officer PC Jamie Smith said: "People will be brought in by hooligans for higher category games." He said they were not paid but were attracted by the potential of getting involved in violence. "These are associates of prominents (hooligans) who will come in and give them a hand when they think the need is there," he said. "We see them out and about on match days although they have no particular interest in the team." While officers are aware of the identities of long-standing Ointment members, little is known about those involved on a casual basis. "We are in the process of gathering intelligence on them and we will be coming down hard on anyone involved in disorder," said PC Smith. "While the numbers of the Ointment itself are not growing, I am sure that these people will be calling themselves by that name. "These people have got no connection to football. They do not go to games and probably never have." Police arrested three Bradford men after violence erupted between City and Aberdeen supporters in Ivegate on July 26. About 50 thugs from each faction clashed during the friendly tournament arranged as a celebration of the Bantams' centenary season. A police dog was injured and a force van had its windscreen smashed. Police, who had already made arrests when fans clashed earlier in Manningham Lane, quickly restored order. In January, there were violent scenes at Leeds train station when Bradford thugs came head-to-head with rival hooligans from the city. It is thought Bradford's "rent-a-thug" tactics will be used for fixtures categorised with a high potential for violence next season such as games against Burnley, Millwall and Sheffield United. On these occasions the police will beef up their match-day operations to try to stop the potential for violence. But PC Smith stressed that the huge majority of City fans were well behaved at both home and away ties. "Ninety-nine per cent of those who follow Bradford City love football and simply follow the game," he said. And he said that, unlike many other clubs, there were no signs of a new youth "firm" emerging. "It seems that it is the same people who have been involved for years," said PC Smith. "There are those who are still intent on disorder while in their 40s." Thursday 03 April 2003: Bradford 15 held at Turkey clash Fifteen football fans from Bradford were arrested by police as the Euro 2004 qualifier between England and Turkey was marred by violence. A spokesman for Northumbria police, which had around 1,000 officers on duty to cope with the crowd, said the arrests were mainly for drink and disorderly offences. By the end of the match at The Stadium of Light in Sunderland police had arrested 95 people. Superintendent Jim Campbell, in charge of security at the 48,000 sell-out match, said a group of more than 25 supporters, believed to follow Leeds, were arrested in the afternoon. Supt Campbell said: "The number of arrests would indicate there were major problems but approximately 60 resulted from two incidents, both fairly early on. "It would appear there was no-one from the Turkish community arrested or injured and the problems we had around the ground were English fans having a go at each other." As kick-off approached, dozens of riot police clashed with hundreds of football supporters on the approach to the stadium. Hooligans pelted riot police and uniformed officers with bottles and a full-scale charge was launched by baton-wielding police. Bradford City v Manchester City 17/03/2001 - Premier League At about 2.45pm a group of Bradford supporters attempted to gain entry to a public house containing mainly Manchester City fans and disorder occurred. Officers quickly restored order. At the ground, Manchester City fans were found in the 'home' ends of the ground. Four arrests were made for racial chanting which was aimed at the local community outside the stadium. This resulted in stones being thrown into the stadium from local children. After the match, throughout the town for a period of 15minutes small pockets of disorder broke out, resulting in a number of arrests. 20 Manchester City fans were arrested as well as six Bradford fans. The large police presence prevented further more serious outbreaks of disorder. Bradford city v Manchester United 27/01/2001 - Premier League Intelligence for this fixture indicated that Manchester and Leeds fans had planned disorder at Halifax. After disturbances in Halifax the Manchester fans travelled by train to Bradford. As some Manchester fans used mob tactics to avoid paying fares all season a barrier check aided by police was set up at Bradford and over £1000 was collected. After the match Leeds fans again started grouping and it became obvious that disorder was planned. All the Manchester fans were placed on the train back to Manchester and police on board ensured that they did not get off en route to prevent disorder. This operation was an example of an excellent policing plan between BTP areas and two other forces whereby the policing tactics used on the day prevented major disorder. Bradford City v Manchester United 13/01/01 - Premier League During this game rival supporters clashed with each other inside the stadium. Several fights erupted and there was spitting and verbal abuse between the supporters. Several arrests were made. At the end of the match there were sporadic outbursts of fighting between the rival groups. A section of the Manchester United supporters made their way to the city centre. This group fought with anyone who challenged them on route. As the Manchester group passed through Centenary Square individual fights occurred between rival groups. Leeds - Bradford 30 jan 2003 Armed with a mobile and a website... football's new generation fight club TEENAGE football thugs are being recruited by a new youth section of a notorious hooligan gang. Members of the Infant Hit Squad (IHS) boast about their violent exploits on a website under the banner: "Leeds Infant Hit Squad – Britain's Number One Casual Youth Firm". The Yorkshire Evening Post can reveal that police football liaison officers are closely monitoring the squad – which is believed to have links with the Leeds Service Crew. Hooligan gangs emerged in the late 1970s and during the 1980s violence between rival gangs exploded on the terraces. After a police crackdown hundreds of thugs were jailed for taking part in these highly organised and large-scale fights. The problem was thought to be under control but the emergence of the Leeds IHS coincides with an increase in football related violence across the England and Wales. Less than a fortnight ago, Service Crew and IHS yobs clashed with members of Bradford's Ointment gang at Leeds City Station after United's 0-0 draw with West Bromwich Albion. An "eye-witness" described the fight on the IHS's website a day later. Insp Melvin Stubbs, head of football operations at Millgarth police station Leeds, said: "The Infant Hit Squad ... are fluid in nature and people only associate themselves with it on a casual basis. "There are a number of websites produced by football hooligan groups. We monitor them and if any offences are described we take the appropriate action. We monitor the protagonists both at football matches and on other days." Hurled Violence tends to be restricted to specific matches, such as derby games and FA cup rounds. Last November Leeds fans ripped up wooden seats and hurled them at Sheffield United fans after the 2-1 Worthington Cup defeat. A month before the match a message appeared on the IHS site – claiming to be from an Leeds Service Crew veteran – which urged the young hooligans to link up with them for a clash with Sheffield's Blades Business Crew that day. An ex-Service Crew member, who did not want to be named, said: "I know there's a game set of lads starting to hang around Leeds again. Back in the 1980s there was the Very Young Team, which were the up-and-coming ones. "With the passage of time some of the VYT ended up as the top boys. "Old Service Crew members keep a low profile. It's very rare to get trouble inside the grounds because there are CCTV cameras everywhere. "It's more likely to happen at train stations or in pubs. With the advent of the mobile phone it's very easy to set up." Inspector Cameron Young, of the British Transport Police, said there had been a marked increase in hooligan activity this season. He said: "In the last six months the presence of the Leeds hooligan fraternity has been noticable. There also seems to be more younger fans turning up." Bradford v Leeds - Tuesday 14 March 2000: We will ban hooligans from all soccer grounds' Hooligans convicted of public order offences at Bradford City's derby clash with Leeds United could be banned from every football stadium in the land, police warned today. Eleven people were arrested during or immediately before Bradford City's crunch match with Leeds United on Sunday. Six were arrested for public order offences, one for pitch invasion and three for drunkenness. All have now been charged, said Inspector Jeff Baker, of Bradford Central Police. "We will be pressing to have a banning order imposed on them which will prevent them from going into any football stadium in the country," he said. "We want to send out a strong message that police will not tolerate this sort of thing." Another person who was arrested before the game in connection with an alleged assault on an anti-racism campaigner has been released on police bail pending an investigation. Some Bantams fans have also accused their club of greed for selling tickets in the home stands to Leeds United supporters. Seats in the Ciba stand were put on open sale and up to 500 were snapped up by Leeds fans. Areas exclusively for Bradford season ticket holders were also invaded by Leeds fans who bought up unused tickets. "It was just greed," said Paul Snowden, secretary of the Queensbury branch of the Bradford City Supporters Club. "They didn't need to sell them to Leeds fans, they could have easily sold out if they had just sold to Bradford fans." A system where vouchers were handed out to people who had attended other City games in the season would have ensured that Leeds fans were excluded, he said. Mr Snowden, who is writing to Bantams chairman Geoffrey Richmond, added: "In all my years as a Bradford City fan I have never seen anything like it in the ground before. It was scandalous. There were at least 500 Leeds fans in Bradford stands." Mr Snowden added that his 12-year-old daughter, Kemma, who is a season ticket holder, was too scared to go into the ground. Shaun Harvey, Bradford City's managing director, said it was standard procedure to review the events of each game and the Leeds match would be no different. "We will be looking at everything from how tickets were distributed to the events of the day. We always look at how things could have been done differently." But Mr Harvey said preventing Leeds fans from getting into home stands was an impossible task. Police had been expecting most of the Leeds fans to be in those three blocks, but in the event found they were dotted all over the ground. l Police are appealing for witnesses after a woman was assaulted as she handed out Anti-Nazi League leaflets before the match. She was hit on the head by a bottle allegedly thrown by a person in a nearby group. Witnesses to the incident at 3.40pm are asked to contact Bradford Central Police on 376459. A man has been arrested in connection with the incident and released on police bail.

HEAVY POLICE PRESENCE TO CURB TROUBLE 12:30 - 05 February 2004 Scunthorpe United will play host to local rivals Doncaster Rovers on Saturday, and police are warning fans trouble will not be tolerated. Tense time expected as United play Doncaster at home The match will be an all-ticket affair, and fans are advised to purchase their tickets in advance. The game is set to attract in the region of 6,500 fans, with a large contingent of Doncaster supporters expected to make the short trip up the M180 for what promises to be an eventful local derby. The historic rivalry between the clubs brings with it real potential for conflict between both sets of fans. There will be a heavy police presence in and around the ground and within the town centre itself in a bid to prevent any trouble breaking out. Uniformed officers will be supported by dog handlers and officers from the mounted division. Sgt Brian Burns, of Scunthorpe Police, said: "The police presence will be strong, with staffing increased due to intelligence and the potential for disorder. "This should ensure this fixture goes smoothly and police resources are able to respond to any developing tension." As Rovers have not visited Glanford Park for four years, Humberside police will be looking to the lessons learned when the club travelled to Lincoln last year. The violence witnessed at that game led to the first use, by Lincolnshire Police, of a taser, a device which delivers an electrical charge designed to temporarily disable troublemakers. Scunthorpe fans have a formidable reputation. In 2002, there were more arrests made at Glanford Park than anywhere else in the country. And, just weeks ago, eight Iron fans were handed three-year bans following trouble at a Rochdale game last October. Sgt Burns said: "As part of the pro-active approach we have to football hooliganism, protected evidence-gathering teams will be out on the day. "The evidence gathered by these teams, who will be using hand-held video cameras, will be utilised to obtain convictions at court. "This approach has, so far, resulted in nine people being summoned to appear at Scunthorpe Magistrates' Court later this month." Doncaster, meanwhile, still holds the unenviable record for the highest number of arrests at any division three ground. It is hoped the level of policing will not only mean a trouble-free fixture, but also minimum disruption within the town itself. Sgt Burns continued: "Other people in the town who are not connected with the game should be able to go about their daily business without incident." York v Doncaster rovers - November 2003 York braced for trouble as football yobs head to city by Evening Press reporter FOOTBALL hooligans from Doncaster are planning to create havoc at tomorrow's Yorkshire derby match with York City. Extra police officers, including mounted officers and dog handlers, will be on duty in the city centre and around the ground for the game. Specialist North Yorkshire Police officers trained in dealing with public order incidents will also be deployed. South Yorkshire Police is doubling its number of hooligan "spotters" from two to four. The force is also sending two public order trained evidence gatherers, who film football crowds. Pc Paul Maloney, York police football liaison officer, said about 50 Doncaster hooligans were expected to be among the thousands travelling to the all-ticket match. Pc Maloney said: "We are expecting some problems both inside and outside the ground. The matches that Doncaster have played so far this season indicates that and so appropriate police resources will be deployed." Pc Maloney said there was no intelligence suggesting York City's hooligans were planning any trouble. But he said: "Our hooligan element have caused problems this season at several matches, but when they have been travelling away rather than here in York." PC Andy Baker, South Yorkshire Police football intelligence officer, said: "The intelligence started rolling in on this weeks ago. Our hooligan element are looking at this game as a really big one." Pc Baker said intelligence suggested Leeds supporters would also be in York looking for a fight. British Transport Police Sergeant Mark Seales said there would be a heavy police presence at York station. "It will be policed firmly," he said. North Yorkshire police declined to say how many extra police would be involved. Chief superintendent John Lacy, York and Selby area commander, said people living near Bootham Crescent had received leaflets telling them of the heavy police presence. "This is a high category match," he said. story 2 Soccer hooligans cause pub havoc A LANDLORD told today how his pub resembled a scene from the Wild West as brawling soccer fans brought chaos to York city centre. Two women customers were hurt and a party of elderly tourists was showered with glass and beer when up to 30 York City and Doncaster Rovers fans clashed at the Golden Lion in Church Street. "I have been here four years and I have never seen anything like it," said landlord John Raw. "It was like something from the Wild West." Trouble also erupted elsewhere in the city centre, and pubs were counting the cost today after closing their doors to customers for several hours amid warnings about troublemakers. Gillian Cruddas, chief executive of York Tourism Bureau, spoke of her concern today about the impact of the trouble on York's reputation for tourists. "This is potentially very damaging to the tourist industry, even if it was a one-off," she said. "If people have had this sort of experience they not only don't want to come again, but they also tell other people what happened when they went to York." At the Golden Lion, Mr Raw said a woman suffered pain in her lower back after being pushed down some stairs, and another suffered a cut to her head. "A group of elderly people sitting by the door - tourists - were showered in glass and beer. They were soaked and not best pleased." He said the fans fled after police arrived "very quickly" on the scene. Another pub hit by hooligans was The Punch Bowl, in Blossom Street. A spokesman for operators Wetherspoons said Doncaster fans inside were called out by "baying" York fans and a punch-up ensued, during which two windows were broken. A man came into the pub after having been "glassed" outside. The pub shut for 90 minutes. Police said Saturday's trouble could have been a lot worse but for a highly visible police presence before and after the Yorkshire derby game between City and Rovers. Officers had anticipated trouble, predicting that about 50 Doncaster hooligans would make the trip to York, and extra officers, including mounted police and dog handlers, were drafted in to deal with the trouble. South Yorkshire Police also doubled its hooligan spotters from two to four for the occasion and sent two public order specialists to film the football crowds. Sgt Richard Hall said: "A mindless minority decided to cause problems instead of just enjoying the game. A few arrests were made but a lot of trouble was stopped by the high-profile police presence. "It was a very good high profile police operation which prevented more serious trouble." He said there had been various incidents of violence throughout the city, both before and after the match. One man was arrested after an object was thrown through a window at the Golden Lion, and several arrests were made elsewhere for public order offences and criminal damage. He said some of the city's pubs had helped minimise the problem by closing or refusing entry to rowdy groups of supporters. At 5.45pm, The Bootham Tavern closed for the evening, and The Five Lions in Walmgate shut its doors until 7pm to stop any Doncaster fans causing trouble in the pub. Craig Holt, landlord of the Five Lions, said they had still continued to serve the people who were already in the pub, but decided to keep their doors closed until the Doncaster fans had left. 12/08/03 Doncaster Rovers-Grimsby Town Trouble flared following Rovers' surprise 3-2 Carling Cup victory over Second Division Grimsby on Tuesday night. A police spokesman said six Grimsby fans and three Doncaster supporters were charged with public order offences and invading the Belle Vue pitch. The nine men have all been bailed and are due to appear before Doncaster magistrates on Friday.

Halifax town casuals

Blackpool - Halifax 21 January 2004 TWO Halifax men were arrested in connection with a serious assault in Blackpool town centre ahead of a crunch football match. Police are also hunting another two men who are thought to have been involved in the attack which left a Blackpool supporter in hospital. The incident happened at 6.15 pm yesterday, before the northern section semi-final LDV Vans Trophy game between Blackpool and Halifax Town. Town crashed out of the competition in a 3-2 defeat. PC Paul Rawstron, of Blackpool Police, said four men were sitting on the injured man when police intervened. The man was taken to Blackpool Victoria Hospital by ambulance. PC Rawstron said a number of people were also turned away from the ground drunk but in general the Town fans were well behaved. "There were 942 away fans in the ground, which was higher than was anticipated," he said. "They were good local supporters. They did well to get behind their team. "It was quite a successful policing operation." PC Rawstron said the game, which attracted 4,764 supporters, was classed as a low risk Category A, in terms of policing numbers and he was unaware of any disturbance after the match.

7th April 2004 SUSPECTED soccer hooligans were netted in dawn raids around Huddersfield this morning. Police mounted a big operation after expressing fears over problems surrounding Huddersfield Town's forthcoming clash with Hull and the approaching European Championships in Portugal. And police said they were determined to deliver a hefty tackle to violent troublemakers planning fights both at home and abroad. More than 20 officers targeted 10 homes in Fartown, Almondbury, Marsden, Slaithwaite and Thurstonland to track down the suspects, aged between 16 and 35. Six men were arrested following a clash between Town and Leeds United fans in Leeds City Station on February 21. The Town gang had allegedly hunted the city's bars for their rivals. The fight was captured on CCTV. About 35 people were involved in the fracas after which five Huddersfield supporters and one Leeds fan were arrested. Officers were also looking for evidence following an incident on December 13, when a train carrying Bradford City fans was pelted with bricks, stones and bottles while waiting at Halifax Station. The train was extensively damaged and taken out of service. "What we are trying to do is prevent other outbreaks of violence," said Det Sgt Dave Boldison, of the British Transport Police. Banning orders forbidding fans from football stadiums, the rail network and even foreign travel can be handed out by the courts. Worries about Town's forthcoming away match with Hull on April 24 as well as the European Championships this summer led to the police crackdown. While domestic rivals happily arrange fights over mobile telephones and e-mail, when abroad they unite under the England flag. The raids were the first of their type carried out in Kirklees by the British Transport Police. The arrested men were held for questioning at Huddersfield and Dewsbury Police Stations. Det Sgt Boldison said: "Most police forces will be working to the same end - to prevent these people going to Portugal and prevent the good name of the England football team being dragged into the mire." Football intelligence officer John Stubbs said the British Transport Police raids targeted the younger trouble-makers. "The younger group feel they have to make a name for themselves. Some of the older group will only attack and fight other recognised groups." He said yobs in their teens or twenties would lash out at anyone in a rival strip. "The younger ones are quite happy to attack normal `shirts'. They are in many ways more dangerous and certainly more of a danger to the normal public." Jan 12th 2004 Yorkshire soccer fans facing Euro 2004 ban BY DAVID BRUCE MORE than 100 West Yorkshire football hooligans are expected to be banned from travelling to the Euro 2004 championships. Eighty soccer thugs are already barred from attending designated domestic matches and international games. West Yorkshire Police announced today they are targeting a further 20-plus individuals who are suspected of being involved in football violence in the county. Police chiefs said that they will be asking magistrates to issue Football Banning Orders to prevent them causing any mayhem at the Championships. Magistrates The Government has provided additional funding to carry out the new operation in West Yorkshire, which will continue until the end of the three-week-long tournament. The first cases are expected to be brought before magistrates within a few weeks. Det Supt Gary Baker, of West Yorkshire Police, said they were very involved in preventing English fans causing disorder at the forthcoming European Championship tournament which starts in Portugal in June. He added: "We are currently gathering evidence against at least 20 individuals who are suspected of being involved in football violence in the county. "We will seek to obtain Football Banning Orders to prevent violence or disorder at, or in connection with, football matches by making an application to the Magistrates' Court to prevent those people attending future football matches, including those involving the England team. "We are working closely with other forces, local clubs and the government to ensure the European Championships will be trouble free. This includes the Football Supporters Federation and FA. "We have received additional financial support from the Home Office to carry out this operation, which will continue until the end of the Championships." Det Supt Baker said that most England football supporters were law abiding, pointing out that matches played in England and Wales last year attracted 33 million fans, of whom only 0.01 per cent were arrested. He warned: "Those who are involved in football related violence should be aware that we are investigating their activities and we will not tolerate any football hooliganism." Those made subject of Football Banning Orders are required to attend a local police station in the five days before an international game – and hand in their passports. The move in West Yorkshire is part of a concerted, nationwide effort to stamp out hooliganism at the high-profile championships. david.bruce@ypn.co.uk Train hit by soccer yobs at station Dec 15 2003 By The Huddersfield Daily Examiner A MOB of soccer yobs ambushed a train and hurled missiles at the windows. British Transport Police believe Huddersfield Town followers were to blame. The train, which carried a mixture of Bradford City supporters and shoppers, was immediately taken out of service. Police are appealing for information about the attack on the Manchester to York train as it pulled into Halifax Station at 10.30pm on Saturday night. A group of about 30 men, believed to be Huddersfield Town supporters waiting on the platform, threw bricks and bottles. Eight windows were smashed. Huddersfield Town played at Macclesfield on Saturday while Bradford's game was at Wigan. A spokesman said officers were studying CCTV footage. Lincoln v Huddersfield Town - Oct 20 2003 By Brigid Shaw, The Huddersfield Daily Examiner FOOTBALL hooligans were branded `brainless idiots' by fans after trouble broke out during Town's match against Lincoln on Saturday. One man, from Nottingham, was arrested after the fracas at Sincil Bank which caused the referee to call a halt to the match. Players were brought into the centre of the pitch while police tackled the troublemakers. Several Town fans who were at the game have condemned the trouble on fans' website, Down at the Mac. Ann Hough, Huddersfield Town club secretary, said she would discuss the matter with police and the club's safety officer at their regular meeting. "Once we do know the full facts we will decide where to go from here," she said. One fan who was at the match said: "What a disgrace. The hooligans at the match are not football fans, they are brainless idiots there to antagonise people and cause trouble. "These idiots lost us the game - not the team." Huddsfield & Leeds - Feb 24 2003 By The Huddersfield Daily Examiner EXTRA police were drafted into Huddersfield town centre after fighting broke out between rival soccer fans. Even though Huddersfield Town had played away at Barnsley on Saturday afternoon, police believe yobs from the town and Leeds United had set up a fight in the town centre during the evening. Police quickly brought extra officers in and the trouble - which happened mainly near the Southgate stretch of the ring road - was quickly quelled. Sgt Tim O'Sullivan, of Huddersfield police, said: "There was sporadic fighting in the town between about 8pm and 10pm. "It sounds as though the trouble was pre-planned between Town supporters and Leeds fans. "Police rounded up many of the people from Leeds and sent them back home by train." Police arrested four men - two from Huddersfield, one from Batley and one from Wakefield. Sgt O'Sullivan added: "Some of the group from Leeds tried to gatecrash the Commonwealth championship boxing at the sports centre, but were turned away." * Police arrested four men before Town's match with Barnsley. Two were held on public order charges and two on suspicion of criminal damage. Around 2,500 Town fans watched Town's 1-0 triumph. Huddersfield V Brentford - May 11 2002 By Mel Booth, The Huddersfield Daily Examiner HUDDERSFIELD Town are threatening life bans on hooligan fans after crowd trouble. The club have been hauled over the coals by the Football Licensing Authority for violence at the play-off game against Brentford. The match was at the McAlpine Stadium in Huddersfield last month. If Town fail to give a yellow card to the yobs in future, they could face: * Capacity cuts at the McAlpine * Removal of the safety licence from certain sections * Greater police involvement on matchdays. Town have been trying to create a better atmosphere by encouraging vocal fans to band together in the John Smith's Kilner Bank stand, but the Licensing Authority were alarmed by behaviour in the opposite lower tier of the Lawrence Batley main stand during the goalless draw against Brentford on April 28. "Not only were large numbers of spectators standing throughout the game, but they were blocking gangways and behaving in an extremely aggressive manner," said the Football Licensing Authority (FLA) in a letter. The letter was sent to Town, Kirklees Council, the McAlpine Stadium company, West Yorkshire Police and the Football League."The tension came to a head at half time in the lower concourse, when several stewards were attacked and there was a stand-off between police and a large hooligan element," said the FLA. Ahead of Monday's meeting of the stadium Events Panel, Town director Paul Haigh promised strong measures. "We do not want unruly fans causing trouble at any time and, in this instance, maybe as few as 20 people could potentially cost the club thousands of pounds in extra costs," said Mr Haigh. "If these people are true fans they will realise we can't afford this and will behave themselves in future. If not, we will have no alternative but to ban them for life." Huddersfield Town v Queens Park Rangers 21/04/01 - Nationwide League Division 1 There was continual baiting between each group during the game. In extra time, Huddersfield scored the winning goal and supporters celebrated by coming to the front of the seated area and baiting QPR supporters. Stewards and police moved in to Huddersfield supporters and attempted to move them into the seating area. QPR supporters overran the steward lines and attempted to move towards the Huddersfield area. Police were deployed with batons and supporters were driven back into the away area and out of the stadium. Huddersfield and QPR supporters moved out of the Stadium and attempted disorder which was prevented by police officers. Two officers were injured, resulting in two arrests for disorder and assault. Disorder in Huddersfield 24/02/2001 Nationwide League Division 1 Saturday 24th February 2001, Huddersfield played away to Burnley and the fixture passes without incident. Huddersfield supporters returned to Huddersfield town centre and settled in a public house. Around 8pm a coach of around 34 Leeds United supporters on their way back from Haydock Park Races stopped off in Huddersfield for a drink. The pub containing the Huddersfield supporters was then attacked by the Leeds group and the Huddersfield group came out of the pub. Serious Disorder takes place within St George's Square, Huddersfield. A number of weapons were used. A number of Leeds hooligans required hospital treatment for head injuries. Huddersfield Town v Nottingham Forest 07/02/01 - Nationwide League Division1 After this match disturbance took place at Huddersfield railway station between Huddersfield and Nottingham Forest supporters on the platforms and missiles thrown between the groups. Police restored order and the Huddersfield supporters left the area. The Huddersfield supporters were later involved in disturbance at a local nightclub. Huddersfield Town v Sheffield Wednesday 30/12/2000 Nationwide League Division1 After this fixture fighting broke out between rival groups in the town centre. A group of Huddersfield supporters attacked the Sheffield supporters at a local public house. Police dispersed the groups and the Sheffield supporters were removed and taken under escort back to the railway station. Huddersfield Town v Burnley 23/09/2000 - Nationwide League Division 1 125 Burnley fans got on a train to travel to Huddersfield including five known hooligans. The fans got off the train at Halifax to seek a confrontation. Good intelligence and sufficient police resources prevented serious disorder. As a result of further intelligence the return service was adequately policed and the fans were prevented from leaving the train. A classic example of good police work involving three forces. One man was arrested for public order offence Disorder Barnsley Town Centre 19/08/00 70 Huddersfield Town supporters left Sheffield Town Centre, believed to be on the way home to Huddersfield. The train had to pass through Barnsley Station. On arrival at Barnsley, there were a group of Barnsley supporters waiting on the platform. The Barnsley group jeered and one was seen to kick out at one of the train doors. Fortunately BTP officers were on the train and prevented anyone from getting off. The train quickly moved out of the station; however, as it reached the next station, 30 of the Huddersfield supporters got off and made their way back into Barnsley Town Centre. In the town centre the Huddersfield supporters were attacked by a group of Barnsley supporters. A Huddersfield supporter was punched in the face and knocked unconscious. Police were quickly on the scene and prevented the situation from escalating. Huddersfield Town v Watford 12/08/00 - Nationwide League Division 1 As this fixture started, disorder occurred outside the ground between groups of Watford and Huddersfield supporters with stones being thrown by the Huddersfield group. Police at the ground dealt with this incident and one man was arrested. At the end of the fixture Huddersfield supporters made their way to a local pub in the Town Centre. Watford supporters were escorted to the railway station; as they passed the pub containing the Huddersfield supporters ashtrays were thrown towards the Watford group and the escorting police. Mounted officers prevented the Huddersfield group from leaving the pub. The Watford supporters were placed on the rail network and left the area. Huddersfield Town v Leeds United 05/08/00 - Pre Season Friendly Leeds fans travelling to Huddersfield were attacked upon arrival at railway station. During this disturbance BTP officers were singled out for attack. The Huddersfield fans made it clear to BTP officers that when no West Yorkshire police were present they would be attacked. After the match sporadic fighting outside station when again BTP came under attack. Officers with batons drawn and dog section repelled this attack. The Huddersfield group stated to officers that they were aware that BTP had few officers on duty and that they would be attacked when the opportunity arose

Lincoln - Hull 28/2/04 Football fans go on the rampage Police say 74 football fans were arrested after rioting at a hotel in Lincoln. The trouble broke out after the derby game between Hull and Lincoln City on Saturday, which none of the people involved, attended. Riot police were called to the Barbican Hotel on St. Mary's Street after the crowd became violent. No-one was injured during the incident and all of the fans have been released on police bail pending investigations. I was terrified. Anthony Matthews, Hotel owner A force spokesman said the group threw bottles and officers . The owner of the Barbican Hotel, Anthony Matthews told the BBC that the police had brought the supporters to the premises and asked his staff to let them in. The fans then caused considerable damage to the hotel. He then had to call the police to help him deal with the disturbance. The area was sealed off and several arrests made. Riot police were called to the scene and the area cordoned off, but the hotel was still considerably damaged. Mr Matthews said: "I didn't know what to do. "I was terrified. "They broke everything, gambling machines, everything." Officers took the fans who were all arrested for violent disorder, to Gainsborough and Lincoln police stations for questioning but they were later released on police bail. 31/08/03 Hull-City-Boston United Football fans' coach attacked The police are investigating after a number of coaches carrying Boston United fans came under attack. At least three vehicles were pelted with missiles following Saturday's division three match against Hull City. It happened as supporters left the KC Stadium after the game. No one was reported injured but the vehicles were damaged. Pilgrims' fan Andy Butler, who was on board one of the coaches, said: "I saw a crowd of Boston fans getting attacked. "The buses have all been hit, we have all had bricks thrown at us. "Ours got through fairly unscathed but the one in front of us had a window put through. "We had to have an escort to get out. It was just mad." Hull - Leeds 02 August 2003-CLASH OF THE YOBS BY CHARLES HESLETT Punches fly as soccer thugs brawl in the streets before Leeds United's friendly against Hull. Last night 80 Leeds yobs never even saw their team lose 2-0 after police swooped on the mob – which was described by officers as "threatening, drunk and unruly". Nine fans, five from Leeds and four from Hull, were arrested for a variety of public order offences, including breach of the peace, and being drunk and disorderly A 500-strong army of police officers swamped Hull's Paragon train station and the football ground in a bid to quell disorder – but even they could not stop violence erupting. Today a spokesman for Humberside Police said: "The night did not pass without incident but on the whole we believe the policing operation was a success. "A group of Leeds fan was immediately picked up at the train station after they arrived behaving in an unruly and threatening way." The mob was stopped by police from West and South Yorkshire in riot gear. Dog handlers and mounted officers corralled the gang inside the station while they searched for weapons. They were then ushered onto two buses and given a police escort back to Leeds. Elsewhere in the city trouble flared between rival supporters. A skirmish broke out in front of the train station when Leeds fans, who had just got off a train, clashed with Hull supporters on Ferensway. They had to be dealt with by mounted police. Other minor fights were also quickly extinguished, with police then busing fans from the station to the KC superstadium three-quarters-of-a-mile away. There were also fights along the Anlaby Road area near the Eagle pub – a known haunt for Hull City supporters – and also scuffles outside the Vauxhall Tavern pub in Hessle Road. Thugs today boasted of last night's violence on the internet on a messageboard website for the so-called Leeds Service Crew – the city's hardcore soccer yobs. Police football intelligence units from West and East Yorkshire had liaised extensively before the game as trouble was expected. It is believed the operation was the biggest Hull has put into action for a football match. • Police are appealing for calm when the Leeds Rhinos visit Hull for a Super League match tonight. story 2 'Cool it' plea to fans ahead of local derby By Paul Robinson and Paul Dews LEEDS United fans have been handed a "cool it" warning ahead of tomorrow night's flashpoint friendly at Hull City. Police fear the match could be marred by pre-arranged clashes between up to 1,000 hooligans, with 400 yobs linked to Leeds thought to be ready to descend on Humberside. Today both clubs urged fans to keep the peace before, during and after United's first game in Hull since 1990. Ian Silvester, club secretary at Elland Road, said: "I'm confident Humberside Police are experienced enough to deal with any incidents of disorder should they occur, but we appeal to all our supporters to uphold our good name. "We hope they will behave in a responsible manner for what is purely a friendly game." Hull chairman Adam Pearson, a former Leeds director, added: "If there is trouble we'll handle it on the night, but I'm hopeful there won't be. I'd like to think everyone will come, enjoy themselves and that the game will be trouble-free." Leeds United Supporters' Club chairman Ray Fell also implored fans not to step out of line. He said: "I am surprised there is so much tension surrounding this match – I can't recall any major incidents involving Leeds and Hull. Followers "The police do seem concerned, though, and they must have their reasons, so all I can ask is that our fans do not step out of line." It is thought around 4,000 Leeds followers will travel to the game at Hull's new Kingston Communications Stadium. Police chiefs on Humberside are adamant their intelligence suggests hardcore hooligans are planning to hijack the friendly. Hull-based thugs are believed to be recruiting yobs from Grimsby and Scunthorpe to fight alongside them. Police leave has been cancelled for Friday and more than 400 officers will be on duty in an operation likely to cost in excess of £150,000. The Humberside force also tried – and failed – to slap a booze ban on large swathes of the city by forcing scores of pubs, hotels and shops to shut between noon and 8pm. Magistrates threw out the police's application on Tuesday after protests from local landlords. Police are also appealing for calm when the Leeds Rhinos visit Hull for a Tetley's Super League match on Saturday evening. Trouble flared at the end of a Silk Cut Challenge Cup semi-final tie between the two sides at Huddersfield's McAlpine Stadium in 2000. paul.robinsons@ypn.co.uk 31 July 2003 Hull City v Chesterfield 28/04/2001 - Nationwide League Division 3 A large police presence kept fans apart until they were queuing for entry. The north east corner turnstiles saw a charge by Hull supporters collapsing the segregation fence. Horses, dogs and officers were deployed and order was restored. Unfortunately several officers were injured. CS Spray and batons were used and 15 were arrested. A large police and steward presence inside the stadium prevented anything further. After the match, police kept fans apart and a well timed heavy downpour of rain helped enormously. There was no disorder after the match. Hull City v Scunthorpe United 07/04/2001 - Nationwide League Division 3 A coach carrying Scunthopre supporters stopped at traffic light adjacent to the ground and was attacked. The Scunthorpe supporters got off the bus and a fight ensued. After 20 minutes police restored order. 14 were arrested. During the game, two arrests were made for pitch invasion. After the match, police deployment prevented any disorder. After a call to a local hotel at 5 am the next morning Sunderland supporters and a Hull supporter were arrested for damage at the hotel. The Sunderland supporters had been seen at the game in the company of Hull supporters. Cardiff City v Hull City 02/3/2001 - Nationwide League Division 3. After the match a confrontation took place in the car park opposite the ground involving around 70 rival supporters. The rivals discharged CS spray during the disorder. Several further scuffles ensued as the fans moved up the car park, before officers separated the groups. The Cardiff fans began to stone the visitors and their busses before being effectively dispersed. Chesterfield v Hull City 11/11/00 - Nationwide League Division 3 Police attended a local pub where Hull supporters had gathered. This group, numbering around 100, was then escorted to the ground. Prior to the group leaving windows were smashed in the pub. When the game commenced the rival supporters baited each other. After 20 minutes a disturbance took place. Hull supporters entered the field of play and fought with Chesterfield supporters. After five minutes order was restored and play continued. A presence of stewards and police prevented any repeat. Hull City v Cardiff City 30/09/00 - Nationwide League Division 3 Police in public order equipment had to be deployed to prevent serious disorder at this fixture. Hull supporters bombarded Police with pool balls, bottles, bricks and glasses. On making arrests police found a number of the supporters were carrying pieces of heavy duty copper cable. Blackpool v Hull City 12/08/00 - Nationwide League Division 3 A large group of Hull supporters travelled to Blackpool on the Friday before this fixture. A group of 50 were refused entry to a nightclub in Blackpool. There was a police presence at this time and two arrests were made for offences of being Drunk and Disorderly. The group moved on and tried to gain access to another club. The doormen refused them access but the group then rushed the door and entered. Police were called to the premises and the group was ejected. On the day of the match a group of around 60 Hull supporters attacked a number of Blackpool supporters who were with children. This group also attacked Blackpool supporters queuing at the turnstiles. Mounted police officers charged this group who then ran off. One was arrested for a public order offence. In the ground after Blackpool scored, a group of Hull supporters could be seen moving towards the dividing fence and disorder was only prevented by a positive police response. The area remained tense throughout the game, with a number of the Hull supporters intimating trouble after the game. At the final whistle Hull supporters gathered on and under Bloomfield Road Bridge until there were about 150 of them. Police were required to move them away. A group of Blackpool supporters began shouting and gesturing abuse at the group from the open fire exit of a local club. The Hull supporters then charged at the Blackpool supporters. Police responded with a full baton and mounted charge and the Hull supporters retreated and were escorted along the Promenade until they split into smaller groups. They then boarded a train from Blackpool. At Preston Railway station they clashed with Burnley supporters returning from Bolton. One police officer was injured during the disorder. 08/05/99 Swansea City-Hull City 2-0 Swansea supporters invaded the pitch from the North Bank and attacked 500 Hull City supporters behind the West terrace goal after they displayed a "King Billy" Loyalist flag. Suprising as Swansea are known to have a large loyalist following. Swansea fans used umbrellas as spears, smashed up advertising hoardings to attack Hull supporters, bottles were thrown. The invasion was by about 300 Swansea fans. The club is already in trouble for disturbances in the games against West Ham and Millwall in the FA Cup and against Brighton in the league. Fences have now been put back up at Swansea reducing the capacity for Sundays home game against Scunthorpe in the play offs to 10,300. The club expect disciplinary action to be taken against them by the football league.

3/5/2004 Leeds thugs top league of shame for railway violence Kate O'Hara Crime Correspondent LEEDS football fans have topped a nationwide "League of Shame" of troublemakers on the railways. British Transport Police told the Yorkshire Post last night that the club's fans were way ahead of any other team in the country when it came to serious incidents, disorder and arrests on trains and in stations. A new "matrix" system introduced by officers last August allocates points to each incident handled by transport police. Five points are given for serious incidents, two for anti-social behaviour or minor disorder, and one for each arrest. Leeds fans have clocked up 90 points so far – a figure which officers said does not even include an incident of violent disorder at Leeds train station last weekend, which ended in five more arrests. DC Graham Naughton of the force's Football Unit said: "As fans were returning from the match police were in the process of closing down Wetherspoon's public house for safety reasons. "As some, mainly Chelsea and Newcastle fans appeared, some of the people who were at Wetherspoon's started throwing ash trays, tables and chairs at them. It didn't last very long but for the innocent bystanders caught up in it, it was very frightening." Transport police also said they expected the problem to get worse over the coming weeks, with Leeds likely to be relegated. Next in the league of shame is Wolverhampton Wanderers with 63 points, followed by Tottenham Hotspur with 44. Portsmouth come close behind with 41 points and Manchester United have 38. DC Naughton added: "I have been with British Transport Police 25 years and it still terrifies me what I see at first hand. "It's all right for me to record all these incidents but for the innocent people involved they are absolutely terrified. "This is just an analytical tool to enable us to keep an eye on who is particularly bad on the railways so we can target particular matches and routes. "Leeds are well up at the top of our league of shame for committing crime on trains. It's not a surprise, though if we had opened a book at the start of the season I might have expected Manchester United, Liverpool and Everton to be up there. "We're anxious, though, that people don't get any notoriety out of this." Down at the bottom of the table, in 83rd place, is Darlington, with just one point. Yorkshire teams who have not fared too badly are Bradford City who are in 63rd place with five points, and York City who are 54th with six. Hull City come in 42nd with 10 points, Scarborough also has 10 and Barnsley come in 25th with 20 points. Huddersfield Town and Doncaster Rovers each have 26 points and Sheffield Wednesday come in 11th with 33. Sheffield United are in 28th place with 19 points. DC Naughton said a lot of the clubs did not accept troublemakers were anything to do with them. "It's not a case of attributing blame to any particular club – if we can't establish which team they support we just leave the category blank. "But there is a link – however tenuous – between the clubs and the hooligans, whether the clubs like it or not," he said. "If it wasn't for the football then there wouldn't be the trouble." He added that arrests on the country's trains were rising every year. "We're making inroads with a 'zero-tolerance' approach, but getting rid of the trouble is proving to be a bigger problem. At the end of the day though, it's a problem we're determined to tackle." Alan Hegarty, operations manager of Leeds United, said: "I will be happy to comment once we have had time to peruse the data which has been supplied. "What I can say is that when I travelled to London to watch the Arsenal-Leeds match I didn't experience a single incident going down or coming back." Eric Carlile, general secretary of Leeds United Supporters Club, said: "Everyone seems to have a downer on Leeds United at the moment. I am very surprised and was completely unaware of these facts. I don't think there will be many members of our supporters club involved." kate.o'hara@ypn.co.uk 26/4/2004 Five Leeds United fans have been jailed for attacking Turkish soccer supporters. Violence flared as Turkey's followers tried to leave a car park in Sunderland after the Euro 2004 qualifier between England and Turkey on April 2 last year. Prosecutor Alec Burns told Newcastle Crown Court:"There was shouting about Galatasarary, the incident involving Leeds supporters and a stabbing which occured a couple of years ago." United fans Kevin Speight and Chris Loftus were stabbed to death in Istanbul before the UEFA cup semi-final between Leeds and Galatasaray in April 2000. The court heard how abuse and chants quickly erupted when Turkish fans got out of their cars in response to the taunts. Despite starting the violence (Do not make me laugh), the English were soon outnumbered as Turks arriving at the car park joined the fray. Mr A, of blank, Mr B, of blank, Mr C, of blank, Mr D, of blank, Mr F, of Blank and Mr H, of blank, had all admitted affray at an earlier hearing. Mr H was the only one who was not a Leeds fan. Defence barristers (Bag of shite) said the men were essentially hard working and law abiding. Mr A was jailed for 21 months due to his previous history of violence. The others each got 18 months. Judge John Milford (Complete Twat) told them: "It is a clear case in my view of England fans deliberately making themselves offensive and then using violence to supporters of the opposing team." Judge Twat said one of the witnesses to the attack, who was also an England fan, told police the outburst left him feeling ashamed to be English. The Cunt added:"It was a quite outrageous incident. Frankly, when the general public read about incidents such this or see them in the media, they feel ashamed to be English." As well as the jail sentences, Judge Twat banned the defendents from attending any football match, either at home or abroad, for 6 years 30 March 2004 Yorks men face jail over football fracas FIVE men from West Yorkshire are facing prison for their part in violent incidents following England's football match with Turkey last year. Each could be sentenced to a maximum of three years after pleading guilty to affray at Newcastle Crown Court yesterday. They are ****** ********, 32, Tingley; **** *****, 32, Birstall;******* ******, 37, of Mirfield; ******* *******, 31, Cleckheaton and ***** ******, 22, Huddersfield. A sixth man, **** *********, 21, Newcastle, admitted the same charge. They were originally due to go on trial for violent disorder but prosecutor Alexander Burns said he was willing to accept guilty pleas to the lesser charge of affray. The court was told that the men drove to Sunderland for last April's Euro 2004 qualifying match despite the fact that most of them did not have a ticket. They met ********* in the city centre after the game and he led them to a car park, where they confronted a group of Turkish fans. They goaded the rival supporters until a couple of other England fans intervened and tried to calm the situation. One of the seven was heard to shout: "No, they stabbed two of our lads over there," a reference to the murders of Leeds United fans Kevin Speight and Christopher Loftus in Turkey in 2000. A member of the group then lashed out at a Turkish supporter and violence erupted. CCTV footage showed the Englishmen arming themselves with a yellow McDonalds cone and a strip of plastic piping as the fight escalated. The Turkish supporters also emerged from their cars with weapons. One witness recalled seeing a set of Nunchakus – a martial arts weapon – being used. Adjourning sentencing until April 26, Judge Esmond Faulks said: "All of you have pleaded guilty to affray which carries a lesser maximum prison sentence, but all of you are at risk of going to prison. "I am not giving any of you any promises about your sentence.This could well be a custodial sentence." grant.woodward@ypn.co.uk Jan 12th 2004 Yorkshire soccer fans facing Euro 2004 ban BY DAVID BRUCE MORE than 100 West Yorkshire football hooligans are expected to be banned from travelling to the Euro 2004 championships. Eighty soccer thugs are already barred from attending designated domestic matches and international games. West Yorkshire Police announced today they are targeting a further 20-plus individuals who are suspected of being involved in football violence in the county. Police chiefs said that they will be asking magistrates to issue Football Banning Orders to prevent them causing any mayhem at the Championships. Magistrates The Government has provided additional funding to carry out the new operation in West Yorkshire, which will continue until the end of the three-week-long tournament. The first cases are expected to be brought before magistrates within a few weeks. Det Supt Gary Baker, of West Yorkshire Police, said they were very involved in preventing English fans causing disorder at the forthcoming European Championship tournament which starts in Portugal in June. He added: "We are currently gathering evidence against at least 20 individuals who are suspected of being involved in football violence in the county. "We will seek to obtain Football Banning Orders to prevent violence or disorder at, or in connection with, football matches by making an application to the Magistrates' Court to prevent those people attending future football matches, including those involving the England team. "We are working closely with other forces, local clubs and the government to ensure the European Championships will be trouble free. This includes the Football Supporters Federation and FA. "We have received additional financial support from the Home Office to carry out this operation, which will continue until the end of the Championships." Det Supt Baker said that most England football supporters were law abiding, pointing out that matches played in England and Wales last year attracted 33 million fans, of whom only 0.01 per cent were arrested. He warned: "Those who are involved in football related violence should be aware that we are investigating their activities and we will not tolerate any football hooliganism." Those made subject of Football Banning Orders are required to attend a local police station in the five days before an international game – and hand in their passports. The move in West Yorkshire is part of a concerted, nationwide effort to stamp out hooliganism at the high-profile championships. david.bruce@ypn.co.uk 9th october 2003-Hooligans alert BY PAUL JEEVES HARDCORE Leeds hooligans are still planning to make their way to Turkey at the weekend, pledging to cause trouble at England's European Championship crunch match. The English FA has banned fans from attending the vital game and pleaded with supporters not to travel or make any attempt to get into the ground. No ticket allocation was taken up by the FA for travelling fans but tickets are believed to be rife on the black market. On Monday, 62 known or suspected Leeds hooligans were forced to surrender their passports to local police stations. That was the largest number of hooligans affiliated to any Premiership side. Qualifies But dozens of Leeds thugs are still planning to try and avoid the authorities and travel to the fixture – which will decide which country qualifies for next year's European Championships. The yobs have even run reconnaissance missions over previous months to seek out ways of sneaking into the country. Police say some thugs are misguidedly seeking revenge for the deaths of Leeds United supporters Kevin Speight and Christopher Loftus in the Turkish capital three years ago. Mr Speight, from Farsley, and Mr Loftus, of Burmantofts, died in street clashes on the eve of a UEFA Cup tie between Leeds and local side Galatasaray. Notorious Leeds hooligan firm The Service Crew has closed down part of its internet site in a bid to foil police because fans were making arrangements to travel to Turkey on the website's message board. Threats were also being made against Turkish-run take-aways such as kebab shops. Police closely monitor hooligan websites and the yobs fear public posting of any plans could scupper their attempts to reach Turkey. Instead they are using untraceable pay-as-you-go mobile phones to make their plans. Hundreds of Leeds yobs travelled to Sunderland in March to cause trouble at England's home clash with Turkey and last week a group of around 20 went to London for Chelsea's match with Turkish team Besiktas. Information on 1,800 yobs who are banned from watching Sven Goran Eriksson's team abroad has been circulated to Turkish police as part of one of the biggest security operations in football history. Football intelligence officers from West Yorkshire have travelled to Turkey this week to help in the biggest football security operation ever staged. Police fear as many as 1,000 England followers will attempt to reach Istanbul and the intelligence officers will also be on duty at ports and airports across the UK. English visitors arriving in Turkey face being turned back unless they can convince customs officials they do not intend to go to the match. Checkpoints will also be set up outside the Sukru Saracoglu stadium itself, where fans will be asked to produce ID cards proving they are Turkish. Any England supporters who are found inside the ground will be immediately ejected. Chief Supt George Robinson said: "All we can do is make it as hard as possible for them. I have never known a joint operation be run as effectively as this. The Turkish authorities are doing everything. There will be cordons and checkpoints on all approaches to the ground." paul.jeeves@ypn.co.uk Hull - Leeds 02 August 2003 Shame of the United thugs FOOTBALL yobs have disgraced Leeds United by finishing top of the league of shame. They received the highest number of "banning orders" in soccer's Premiership, with 62 supporters now barred from every ground in the country. Nationally, the number of banning orders rose by more than half, from 1,149 on August 5 last year to 1,794 last Thursday. The number of arrests for football-related offences rose 19 per cent last season to 4,793, including the highest number at league matches since 1994-1995. The number of arrests for racist chanting increased 57 per cent from 47 to 74, reflecting tougher police attitudes towards racism on the terraces. Most arrests at matches were for public disorder (1,886), alcohol offences (1,216) and violent disorder (439). The statistics, collected by the Football Banning Orders Authority and published by the Home Office, cover all domestic and international games in England and Wales from August 2002 to June 2003. The Home Office has said it will spend £5m over three years to help police to crack down on "known and emerging" hooligans. Home Office minister Hazel Blears said: "Football disorder has been significantly reduced in recent decades but a minority of troublemakers continue to threaten our national game. "We are determined to work with police, fans and football authorities to stamp out violence." David Swift, deputy chief constable of Staffordshire and spokesman for the Association of Police Officers on football issues, said: "In the coming season there will be more emphasis on dedicated intelligence operations and high levels of policing to bring those responsible for disorder to justice." Home Office ministers are to meet officials from the Department of Constitutional Affairs, police, Crown Prosecution Service and the Magistrates' Association to explore further crackdowns. Chris Whalley, the Football Association's head of stadia, safety and security, said: "We are encouraged by the figures which show that the tougher policy towards violent and anti-social behaviour at football matches is working. "Football is still far and away the most popular sport in the country, with 33 million people attending matches last season, and arrests constitute only 0.01 per cent of that total number. "Nevertheless, the FA is fully committed to tackling this problem. "We are particularly encouraged by the increase in banning orders, which prevent troublemakers from attending matches both domestically and abroad." Alan Hegarty, sales and operations manager at Leeds United, said: "Leeds United is among the most diligent of clubs in tackling racism and in reaching out to ethnic minority communities. "Leeds still has problems to be tackled. It is the minority of supporters who are to blame." alison.bellamy@ypn.co.uk 02 August 2003-CLASH OF THE YOBS BY CHARLES HESLETT Punches fly as soccer thugs brawl in the streets before Leeds United's friendly against Hull. Last night 80 Leeds yobs never even saw their team lose 2-0 after police swooped on the mob – which was described by officers as "threatening, drunk and unruly". Nine fans, five from Leeds and four from Hull, were arrested for a variety of public order offences, including breach of the peace, and being drunk and disorderly A 500-strong army of police officers swamped Hull's Paragon train station and the football ground in a bid to quell disorder – but even they could not stop violence erupting. Today a spokesman for Humberside Police said: "The night did not pass without incident but on the whole we believe the policing operation was a success. "A group of Leeds fan was immediately picked up at the train station after they arrived behaving in an unruly and threatening way." The mob was stopped by police from West and South Yorkshire in riot gear. Dog handlers and mounted officers corralled the gang inside the station while they searched for weapons. They were then ushered onto two buses and given a police escort back to Leeds. Elsewhere in the city trouble flared between rival supporters. A skirmish broke out in front of the train station when Leeds fans, who had just got off a train, clashed with Hull supporters on Ferensway. They had to be dealt with by mounted police. Other minor fights were also quickly extinguished, with police then busing fans from the station to the KC superstadium three-quarters-of-a-mile away. There were also fights along the Anlaby Road area near the Eagle pub – a known haunt for Hull City supporters – and also scuffles outside the Vauxhall Tavern pub in Hessle Road. Thugs today boasted of last night's violence on the internet on a messageboard website for the so-called Leeds Service Crew – the city's hardcore soccer yobs. Police football intelligence units from West and East Yorkshire had liaised extensively before the game as trouble was expected. It is believed the operation was the biggest Hull has put into action for a football match. • Police are appealing for calm when the Leeds Rhinos visit Hull for a Super League match tonight. story 2 'Cool it' plea to fans ahead of local derby By Paul Robinson and Paul Dews LEEDS United fans have been handed a "cool it" warning ahead of tomorrow night's flashpoint friendly at Hull City. Police fear the match could be marred by pre-arranged clashes between up to 1,000 hooligans, with 400 yobs linked to Leeds thought to be ready to descend on Humberside. Today both clubs urged fans to keep the peace before, during and after United's first game in Hull since 1990. Ian Silvester, club secretary at Elland Road, said: "I'm confident Humberside Police are experienced enough to deal with any incidents of disorder should they occur, but we appeal to all our supporters to uphold our good name. "We hope they will behave in a responsible manner for what is purely a friendly game." Hull chairman Adam Pearson, a former Leeds director, added: "If there is trouble we'll handle it on the night, but I'm hopeful there won't be. I'd like to think everyone will come, enjoy themselves and that the game will be trouble-free." Leeds United Supporters' Club chairman Ray Fell also implored fans not to step out of line. He said: "I am surprised there is so much tension surrounding this match – I can't recall any major incidents involving Leeds and Hull. Followers "The police do seem concerned, though, and they must have their reasons, so all I can ask is that our fans do not step out of line." It is thought around 4,000 Leeds followers will travel to the game at Hull's new Kingston Communications Stadium. Police chiefs on Humberside are adamant their intelligence suggests hardcore hooligans are planning to hijack the friendly. Hull-based thugs are believed to be recruiting yobs from Grimsby and Scunthorpe to fight alongside them. Police leave has been cancelled for Friday and more than 400 officers will be on duty in an operation likely to cost in excess of £150,000. The Humberside force also tried – and failed – to slap a booze ban on large swathes of the city by forcing scores of pubs, hotels and shops to shut between noon and 8pm. Magistrates threw out the police's application on Tuesday after protests from local landlords. Police are also appealing for calm when the Leeds Rhinos visit Hull for a Tetley's Super League match on Saturday evening. Trouble flared at the end of a Silk Cut Challenge Cup semi-final tie between the two sides at Huddersfield's McAlpine Stadium in 2000. paul.robinsons@ypn.co.uk 31 July 2003 7 April 2003 - Thugs' net boast POLICE have condemned Leeds thugs who bragged over the internet about their involvement in violence at England's football clash with Turkey. Members of hooligan group the Leeds Service Crew boasted of beating up Turkish fans in a series of sickening claims left on message boards. Many claimed to have been arrested during the trouble and spoke of "Turks getting slapped all over Sunderland". One yob crowed that the Turks had "taken a pasting" from the Gremlins – thugs attached to Newcastle United – and the Service Crew. He added: "Respect." Another member boasted: "1,000 OB (police officers) on duty and still it kicked off." The website messages have been blasted by West Yorkshire Police. Insp Melvyn Stubbs, football liaison officer for Leeds United, said: "We would condemn anything which incites violence. "We monitor the messageboards on a daily basis for these types of stories and if criminal offences are discussed we will take appropriate action." Thirty men from Leeds were among 100 people arrested in clashes before England's Euro 2004 match last Wednesday. Rival gangs fought running battles across Sunderland as more than 1,000 police officers struggled to maintain control. At the height of the trouble Leeds thugs joined a 300-strong mob in a vicious attack on Turkish coaches. Missiles rained down on the stranded buses as Turkish supporters cowered. Hooligans chanting racist songs tried to force open the doors. Leeds fans were said to be out to avenge the deaths of Kevin Speight and Christopher Loftus in Istanbul three years ago. grant.woodward@ypn.co.uk 06 March 2003 City braced for football yob invasion POLICE are preparing to deal with up to 600 football hooligans at Sheffield United's FA Cup quarter final clash against Leeds. They expect about 250 known trouble makers to be among the fans travelling from Leeds for Sunday morning's tie, and are planning one of the largest police operations in the city this season. They also expect up to 100 Donny Whites, Leeds fans from Doncaster. They also expect around 250 Blades Business Crew (BBC) members, linked with trouble at Sheffield United games all season, to be at the match. The number of hooligans expected, and the police response, is as high as it was for the Sheffield derby at Bramall Lane in January. Police commanders are today preparing to put about 250 officers on duty on Sunday. Chief Insp Andy Eddison said: "Intellig-ence from West Yorkshire and other sources suggests as many as 250 known hooligans will travel to the game from Leeds. There will be up to 100 'Donny Whites' making the trip from Doncaster. "We will have British Transport Police officers along the route survey the Midland Station. "We expect as many as 250 known trouble makers linked with the BBC (Blades Business Crew)." City licensing chiefs have partially relented on their ban on supporters in the ground's lower tier. The council licensing committee decided on Tuesday to allow extra supporters into the lower tier of the Bramall Lane stand, where there was trouble at the last game the Blades and Leeds. But more than 2,000 seats in the Laver Stand, where BBC members are known to congregate, will only hold extra stewards. The ban follows ugly clashes after the Blades' Worthington Cup victory over Leeds last November, when seats were ripped out of the Bramall Lane stand and thrown onto supporters below. The new £50,000 mobile CCTV camera will survey Sheffield Midland Station and turnstiles. Huddsfield - Leeds - Feb 24 2003 By The Huddersfield Daily Examiner EXTRA police were drafted into Huddersfield town centre after fighting broke out between rival soccer fans. Even though Huddersfield Town had played away at Barnsley on Saturday afternoon, police believe yobs from the town and Leeds United had set up a fight in the town centre during the evening. Police quickly brought extra officers in and the trouble - which happened mainly near the Southgate stretch of the ring road - was quickly quelled. Sgt Tim O'Sullivan, of Huddersfield police, said: "There was sporadic fighting in the town between about 8pm and 10pm. "It sounds as though the trouble was pre-planned between Town supporters and Leeds fans. "Police rounded up many of the people from Leeds and sent them back home by train." Police arrested four men - two from Huddersfield, one from Batley and one from Wakefield. Sgt O'Sullivan added: "Some of the group from Leeds tried to gatecrash the Commonwealth championship boxing at the sports centre, but were turned away." * Police arrested four men before Town's match with Barnsley. Two were held on public order charges and two on suspicion of criminal damage. Around 2,500 Town fans watched Town's 1-0 triumph. Leeds - Bradford 30 jan 2003 (IHS) Armed with a mobile and a website... football's new generation fight club TEENAGE football thugs are being recruited by a new youth section of a notorious hooligan gang. Members of the Infant Hit Squad (IHS) boast about their violent exploits on a website under the banner: "Leeds Infant Hit Squad – Britain's Number One Casual Youth Firm". The Yorkshire Evening Post can reveal that police football liaison officers are closely monitoring the squad – which is believed to have links with the Leeds Service Crew. Hooligan gangs emerged in the late 1970s and during the 1980s violence between rival gangs exploded on the terraces. After a police crackdown hundreds of thugs were jailed for taking part in these highly organised and large-scale fights. The problem was thought to be under control but the emergence of the Leeds IHS coincides with an increase in football related violence across the England and Wales. Less than a fortnight ago, Service Crew and IHS yobs clashed with members of Bradford's Ointment gang at Leeds City Station after United's 0-0 draw with West Bromwich Albion. An "eye-witness" described the fight on the IHS's website a day later. Insp Melvin Stubbs, head of football operations at Millgarth police station Leeds, said: "The Infant Hit Squad ... are fluid in nature and people only associate themselves with it on a casual basis. "There are a number of websites produced by football hooligan groups. We monitor them and if any offences are described we take the appropriate action. We monitor the protagonists both at football matches and on other days." Hurled Violence tends to be restricted to specific matches, such as derby games and FA cup rounds. Last November Leeds fans ripped up wooden seats and hurled them at Sheffield United fans after the 2-1 Worthington Cup defeat. A month before the match a message appeared on the IHS site – claiming to be from an Leeds Service Crew veteran – which urged the young hooligans to link up with them for a clash with Sheffield's Blades Business Crew that day. An ex-Service Crew member, who did not want to be named, said: "I know there's a game set of lads starting to hang around Leeds again. Back in the 1980s there was the Very Young Team, which were the up-and-coming ones. "With the passage of time some of the VYT ended up as the top boys. "Old Service Crew members keep a low profile. It's very rare to get trouble inside the grounds because there are CCTV cameras everywhere. "It's more likely to happen at train stations or in pubs. With the advent of the mobile phone it's very easy to set up." Inspector Cameron Young, of the British Transport Police, said there had been a marked increase in hooligan activity this season. He said: "In the last six months the presence of the Leeds hooligan fraternity has been noticable. There also seems to be more younger fans turning up." charles.heslett@ypn.co.uk 14 September 2002 Leeds v Man U Manchester United's misery in West Yorkshire could be prolonged, as it was confirmed that Police are looking into an allegation that a Leeds fan was struck by a bottle allegedly thrown by Fabien Barthez. The alleged incident is said to have occurred after Leeds took the lead during their 1-0 win over their bitter-rivals on Saturday. A plastic bottle appeared to be thrown after Kewell's goal and Barthez is alleged to have thrown it back into the crowd, where it is claimed it struck a Leeds supporter. 'We have been made aware of an incident and we will be investigating.' said a spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police. The Police were on full-alert on Saturday for what is always a powder-keg fixture. However security was heightened due largely to the return of Rio Ferdinand and an incident last-season which saw 400 hard-core hooligans battle on wasteland a mile from the stadium. Police confirmed that 11 arrests were made and 2 officers sustained injury as rival fans battled before and after the match. A coach carrying Manchester United fans is understood to have been damaged, whilst reports of the bus carrying the team being vandalised have been denied. 15 August 2002 POLICE today said they are confident the new football season will kick off without trouble with their own team prepared for the Premiership. Leeds United topped the league of shame with more fans being banned from matches than any other Premiership club last season with 71 banning orders issued. United start the new season with a home match against Manchester City and a 40,000 sell out crowd is expected. The Government has ploughed massive investment into tackling football violence with extra funding for police nationwide. A spokesman for West Yorkshire Police said: "A great deal of work has gone into preparing for the season and ensuring we have sufficient resources to deal with anyone intent on causing problems at the Elland Road matches. Arrests "We work with Leeds United throughout the season to prevent disorder and anti-social behaviour." He added that recent statistics, including 100 arrests throughout the 2001-02 season, highlighted the positive and pro-active approach taken by the police and the club towards the perpetrators. "We will continue to take action. West Yorkshire Police has considerable experience in policing both Premiership and European matches." Criminal damage, assaults and drunk and disorderly are the most common crimes committed. There were 71 orders stopping hooligans going to Leeds United games – by far the highest in the Premiership and topped only by Cardiff City and Stoke City in the Football League. Earlier this year Leeds United had more fans than any other Premiership club banned from travelling to the World Cup in Japan and South Korea. But the club's operations director, David Spencer, said the figures were a sign that the efforts of Leeds United, West Yorkshire Police and local magistrates to stamp out hooliganism were working. "This is testament to the huge effort that is being put in and shows we are going that extra mile to stop people who want to cause trouble at Leeds United games," he said. The Government report showed 100 Leeds United fans were arrested at matches in all competitions - with 43 arrests at home and 57 at away games. Nationwide, the number of orders banning hooligans from travelling to matches rose to 1,149 compared with 687 the year before. Ron Hogg, football spokesman for the Association of Chief Police Officers, said lack of violent disorder at last June's World Cup showed banning orders were working in tackling hooliganism. alison.bellamy@ypn.co.uk 6 January 2002 Cardiff City v Leeds United Around 200 Leeds hooligans travelled by coach to Hereford, where they boarded a train to Cardiff. They were escorted to the ground. A small group of Cardiff attempted to ambush them on Sloper Road, but were easily pushed back by the police. Leeds hooligans racially abused Asian families on the way to the ground. Outside the ground the Leeds escort was pelted with missiles. During the match missiles were thrown at Leeds fans, who returned many of them. At full time Cardiff fans invaded the pitch and were prevented from attacking the Leeds supporters by riot police and dogs. 9 February 2002 Middlesborough v Leeds United About 60 Leeds fans attacked home fans and police. Missiles were thrown and CS gas was used by Leeds hooligans. The group was finally dispersed by a police baton charge. 30 March 2002 Leeds United v Manchester United Rival football fans clashed outside the ground following the Premiership match at Elland Road. Eight men were arrested for various offences including public disorder and being drunk and disorderly but police managed to prevent major disorder. 20 January 2001 Leeds United v Newcastle United Leeds United v Manchester United 03/03/2001 - Premier League 450 Manchester United fans travelled to this match. This group also contained a significant number of serious hooligans from other clubs. A revenue protection operation resulted in over £600 being recovered. When the train was searched 64 forged tickets for the match were found. After the game, which was played at 11.30am, there was large-scale disorder when some 250 Manchester United supporters left the stadium and were unable to be corralled by the local police. Around 150 Leeds United confronted the Manchester group near to a public house. From there a running battle ensued involving various missiles. Supporters on both sides were injured and missiles hit some police officers. No arrests were made at the time due to the nature of the violence and the need to keep officers engaged. The Manchester United group was eventually taken to the railway stations and dispatched to Manchester without further incident. The Leeds group themselves made their way home again without incident. A group of Newcastle United fans alighted a train at Leeds city station and went into a bar on the concourse. The bar was then attacked by a group of Leeds fans who had de-camped from another public house on the new concourse. Officers attended and dispersed the groups. A fire extinguisher and bar table were thrown through the bar windows during the disturbance. 29 April 2000 Sheffield Wednesday v Leeds Utd A group of Leeds supporters numbering around 80 in number took the local tram towards the ground. During the journey they vandalised the tram disabling it. Police attended the scene to keep rival groups apart. The police then escorted the Leeds group to and from the stadium preventing disorder. Later that evening Sheffield Wednesday supporters clashed with Sheffield United supporters. This led to eight arrests for public order offences. Bradford v Leeds - Tuesday 14 March 2000: We will ban hooligans from all soccer grounds' Hooligans convicted of public order offences at Bradford City's derby clash with Leeds United could be banned from every football stadium in the land, police warned today. Eleven people were arrested during or immediately before Bradford City's crunch match with Leeds United on Sunday. Six were arrested for public order offences, one for pitch invasion and three for drunkenness. All have now been charged, said Inspector Jeff Baker, of Bradford Central Police. "We will be pressing to have a banning order imposed on them which will prevent them from going into any football stadium in the country," he said. "We want to send out a strong message that police will not tolerate this sort of thing." Another person who was arrested before the game in connection with an alleged assault on an anti-racism campaigner has been released on police bail pending an investigation. Some Bantams fans have also accused their club of greed for selling tickets in the home stands to Leeds United supporters. Seats in the Ciba stand were put on open sale and up to 500 were snapped up by Leeds fans. Areas exclusively for Bradford season ticket holders were also invaded by Leeds fans who bought up unused tickets. "It was just greed," said Paul Snowden, secretary of the Queensbury branch of the Bradford City Supporters Club. "They didn't need to sell them to Leeds fans, they could have easily sold out if they had just sold to Bradford fans." A system where vouchers were handed out to people who had attended other City games in the season would have ensured that Leeds fans were excluded, he said. Mr Snowden, who is writing to Bantams chairman Geoffrey Richmond, added: "In all my years as a Bradford City fan I have never seen anything like it in the ground before. It was scandalous. There were at least 500 Leeds fans in Bradford stands." Mr Snowden added that his 12-year-old daughter, Kemma, who is a season ticket holder, was too scared to go into the ground. Shaun Harvey, Bradford City's managing director, said it was standard procedure to review the events of each game and the Leeds match would be no different. "We will be looking at everything from how tickets were distributed to the events of the day. We always look at how things could have been done differently." But Mr Harvey said preventing Leeds fans from getting into home stands was an impossible task. Police had been expecting most of the Leeds fans to be in those three blocks, but in the event found they were dotted all over the ground. l Police are appealing for witnesses after a woman was assaulted as she handed out Anti-Nazi League leaflets before the match. She was hit on the head by a bottle allegedly thrown by a person in a nearby group. Witnesses to the incident at 3.40pm are asked to contact Bradford Central Police on 376459. A man has been arrested in connection with the incident and released on police bail. 5 Febuary 2000 Liverpool v Leeds At half time Leeds supporters began to fight with each other in the refreshment area. They then turned their attention on both the stewards and the police. Several officers were punched and kicked as they went to the assistance of their colleagues. This attack on the police appeared to have been organised and was started on a given signal. Assistance was required from outside the stadium in order to quell the disturbance and officers were forced to draw batons during the disturbance. 9 January 2000 Manchester City v Leeds United FA Cup A group of 60 Manchester City supporters attempted to attack a group of Leeds supporters who were being escorted to the ground. Police kept the rival groups apart. At the end of the fixture Manchester City supporters attacked police officers with bottles and other missiles. A van belonging to visiting Leeds supporters was overturned and damaged 5 August 2000 Huddersfield Town v Leeds United Pre Season Friendly Leeds fans travelling to Huddersfield were attacked upon arrival at railway station. During this disturbance BTP officers were singled out for attack. The Huddersfield fans made it clear to BTP officers that when no West Yorkshire police were present they would be attacked. After the match sporadic fighting outside station when again BTP came under attack. Officers with batons drawn and dog section repelled this attack. The Huddersfield group stated to officers that they were aware that BTP had few officers on duty and that they would be attacked when the opportunity arose. Roma V Leeds - 2nd March 2000 The trouble that occured before this game sums up the cowardice and lack of bottle that foreign firms show. Leeds took some 7000 fans to Rome, with several tidy mobs looking for a row with their Italian conterparts. As what always happens when English fans are abroad the Romans wanted nothing to do with the Leeds crew except when they outnumbered them 20 to 1. Outside the stadium there was a group of about 50 Leeds that had been checking out the area looking for a like minded Roma mob to kick off with. A group of nearly 200 Roma fans appeared and still did'nt fancy the row although they heavily outnumbered the Leeds fans. Leeds were up for it but Roma made no challenge. When the Rome police turned up on the scene, all of a sudden the Roma fans start throwing bottles at the Leeds knowing they had their English hating police force to protect them. The Leeds fans dispersed, so as not to get batton charged by the police and made their way to the stadium. Not long after this a group of about only 10 Leeds fans (not hooligans, just fathers with their kids there to enjoy the match and atmosphere of a European game in Rome) were savagely attacked by about 100 Roma fans which resulted in one sixteen year old child and his father receiving stab wounds to their legs. All English firms have a code of conduct that they will only row with like minded people and never attack inocents. What happened in Rome was a disgrace and shows the Italians up for the cowards they are. We thought Roma were supposed to be one of the most feared mobs in Italy but they did'nt want to know against our lads. Some Roma fans were also riding round the city on mopeds, holding knives, trying to slash Leeds fans as they strolled around the streets. Don't they know how to fight toe to toe? They attack innocent fans and children and claim this as some sort of result. Fucking COWARDS. These same sort of incidents have always occured when the English invade Italy. They will never be respected in the hooligan world if they only want to fight with inocents who they heavily outnumber. Try fighting with our main mobs and see what happens. When England played in Italy in the World Cup 1990 & the World Cup qualifer in Rome 1997, the Italians were taught a severe lesson and can't handle the fact the the English always take the fight to them and remain victorious on their soil. How many Italian mobs have ever travelled to England - none. It's the same with all the foregin hooligans, none have ever showed in England since Feyenoord travelled to Tottenham in the 1970's! Look what happened at Euro 96 when no mobs turned up except for the Scottish which left the English with no-one to fight with except for the police. How do any foreign hooligans expect to be compared to the English if they can't take the fight off their own soil, which they normally loose anyway. 23 January 2000 Sunderland v Leeds United At half time a refreshment bar came under attack from Leeds supporters. They abused the staff and attempted to remove a till. Police moved in to restore order but they to came under attack. Batons were drawn and the supporters were moved back in to the seating area. At the conclusion of the fixture a group of 100 Leeds supporters attempted to confront a group of 30 Sunderland supporters. Police kept both groups apart but there was some sporadic outbreaks of disorder. 18 arrests were made. 29 July 2000 Nottingham Forest v Leeds United - Pre-Season Friendly After this pre-season friendly Forest supporters attacked a group of Leeds supporters as they returned to their cars. Several Forest supporters were arrested as a result of this incident and a Leeds supporter was taken to hospital after being hit with a bottle. 28 August 1999 Tottenham Hotspur v Leeds United Following this match a group of Tottenham supporters turned on the police when officers stepped in to prevent them from approaching a van driven by a Leeds supporter. Tottenham supporters drinking outside the Bank Public House threw numerous missiles at police. Order was quickly restored although a number of missiles continued to be thrown 16 October 1999 Leeds v Sheffield Wednesday Prior to this fixture a group of around 30 Leeds supporters attacked a group of 20 Sheffield Wednesday supporters in a local public house. Glasses, bottles and chairs were thrown during the disorder and as a result several people sustained cuts from flying glass. Police attended and order was restored. After the game a large group of Leeds supporters attempted to confront Sheffield supporters but were prevented from doing so by mounted branch officers.

11 August 2003 - Inquest into fan struck by police horse A JURY were today due to visit the site where a football fan was fatally injured after being trampled by a police horse before a Rotherham United game. Swansea City supporter Terry Coles was stamped on outside the Millmoor ground before the Third Division Championship decider in May, 2000. The dad-of-two was trampled on by a police horse ridden by Pc Dave Lindsay as chaos ensued after stone-throwing broke out between some Rotherham and Swans' supporters. The 41-year-old was taken to Rotherham General Hospital but died later. Today, a two-week inquest into Mr Coles death was due to begin in Doncaster, with dozens of witnesses and statements to be heard by the Coroner and Jury. The jury was today due to be sworn in today at Doncaster Magistrates Court, who will hear evidence of Mr Coles' death and events surrounding it. It is being held in the Magistrates' Court because of the number of witnesses and members of the public who will be attending. The jury was set to visit the Millmoor ground this afternoon as part of the inquiry. Mr Coles' death sparked a lengthy police investigation. It is believed CCTV footage formed a vital part of that investigation. South Yorkshire Police asked the West Yorkshire force to investigate the matter and evidence was passed on to the Crown Prosecution Service special unit in York. The Police Complaints Authority launched its own inquiry but no criminal or disciplinary proceedings were brought against the officer or his colleagues. The final game of the season in May 2000 was marred by trouble from both sets of fans including two pitch invasions. 20 August 2002 - Arrests soar as Millers tackle yobs ARRESTS at Rotherham United games rocketed to 43 last year from 13 the previous season. Today police blamed the increase on more thugs "trying it on" - although they were being tackled by more police officers with better resources. Hooligans had especially caused trouble at First Division away games - with Manchester City and Birmingham being two hot spots. Skirmishes Millers fans were criticised by staff at Maine Road for turning up late, with dozens of fans sitting in wrong seats, blocking aisles and refusing to sit-down. It even led to skirmishes between fellow Rotherham fans within the ground. Stewards and police battled to control the situation. A spokesman for Rotherham Police said: "Quite a few of the arrests were made away from home. There was a bigger potential for trouble in the First Division and more police were deployed with better resources because the games were a higher category. "On top of that more fans tried it on at games and this resulted in more arrests being made." The figures contrast with general falls nationwide in the number of arrests - down in England and Wales from 4,162 to 3,898. Arrests of Barnsley fans increased from 38 to 44 but arrests of Owls fans were down from 83 to 78 - still leaving them with the third worst arrest record in that division. Sheffield United fans got the biggest pat on the back after arrest figures dropped dramatically from 90 to 35. Banning orders were imposed on 10 Rotherham fans, seven Barnsley supporters, 11 Blades fans, and six Owls fans preventing them from going to matches Wigan Athletic v Rotherham United 21/04/2001 - Nationwide League Division 2 There were no problems before or during the game. After the game a Wigan group that included supporters attacked a mini bus containing Rotherham. The windscreen of the vehicle was shattered and the driver injured. Fighting took place and further up the street a group of five Rotherham fans were also attacked. Two of this group required hospital treatment. There was also disorder at another public house on Wallgate where more arrests were made.

5/6/04 BANNED A SHEFFIELD United thug has been banned from the Euro 2004 football championships after trouble in Portugal. Railway worker **** ****** joins another 177 hooligans from across South Yorkshire and Chesterfield who will surrender their passports to police from Monday so they cannot travel to the event. ****** became one of the latest fans to receive a football banning order after magistrates heard he injured a police officer in the Algarve town of Faro during an England friendly in February. He is banned from all matches - including those involving England and Sheffield United - for three years. The 33-year-old, of , Birley Carr, Sheffield, became the first supporter in the city to be ordered to stay away from matches in England, Wales and Europe as a result of an incident abroad. Sheffield Magistrates Court heard ****** was involved in trouble and taken into custody after unrest around a beer tent set up for fans in Faro. An officer was injured during ******'s arrest and needed stitches. Meanwhile, two other Sheffield United fans also agreed to comply with football banning orders as a result of violence and disorder in relation to matches in Sheffield. , ****** ***** ******** aged 24, Low Edges, and ***** ****** ****, 20, of , Low Edges, were both banned from football matches across the country and Europe for three years. Sheffield magistrates also imposed restrictions which mean **** and ***** are not allowed within a two-mile radius of United's ground on Bramall Lane - or Hillsborough during a derby game with Sheffield Wednesday - or the Town Hall at certain hours on match days. They were also banned from using the Supertram during periods before and after home matches. ****** was banned from his home ground and from travelling to England games at home and abroad. Evidence revealed he had also been involved in domestic football-related trouble. The three new orders bring to 22 the total number of civil bans handed out by city magistrates since the Football Banning Order Project Team was set up by South Yorkshire Police last October. Team leader Phil Woodward said a total of 139 orders have now been handed out across the county in the past three years, impacting on hooligan groups connected with all five of South Yorkshire's league clubs. Derbyshire Police expect 39 Chesterfield FC fans to hand over their passports during Euro 2004, which begins next week. All those covered by a ban will have to surrender their passports to police until July 4, when the tournament concludes, and report to an allotted police station on England match days, or face another day in court. Breaching a banning order can bring a jail sentence of up to five years or a heavy fine. Hooligans can apply for their ban to be lifted after two years. "We will strictly enforce any breaches," said Mr Woodward. "We are working hard at preventing any known hooligans from travelling. We have taken some of the leaders of the Blades Business Crew out a month or so ago." Mr Woodward said the police in South Yorkshire could claim a role in keeping trouble off the streets of Portugal during Euro 2004. "I go to national meetings and we have been recognized as, perhaps, one of the leading lights with this, which is good. We are going in the right direction." Football fans in 'worst fight in years' FIGHTING which broke out after a Norwich City home game was the worst to hit city streets in many years, a court has heard. At one point only four scared police officers were trying to control between 50 and 60 chanting and fighting fans of Norwich City and Sheffield United. In two separate court cases, three men — two from Norfolk and one from Sheffield — admitted using threatening behaviour. District judge F****r M******n yesterday adjourned the cases against Norfolk men A**m M**o and D****n C******y for pre-sentence reports. Prison would be one of the options, he said. M**o, 29,of Brundall and C******y, 31, of Sprowston both admitted threatening behaviour after the January 31 match. They were both bailed on condition they do not go to any Norwich matches in the meantime and stay away from the ground and the city centre two hours before and four hours after kick-off when the Canaries play at home. Prosecutor Elizabeth Houghton told the court at a previous hearing: "I am told it was the biggest football-related violence on the streets of Norwich for many years." Trouble broke out on the Riverside complex after the match and police were alerted to a disturbance outside Squares at about 6pm. "In total there were about 50 to 60 fans on the streets taunting each other," said Miss Houghton. Officers tried to separate groups of fans who started fighting. At one point just four officers were trying to control the escalating public disorder which was breaking out. Then people, including families with children, started leaving the nearby UCI Cinema and coming into contact with the violence. One officer described in a statement how hostile the atmosphere was and how the violence was spreading. "Officers were vastly outnumbered. He was concerned for his safety and that of his colleagues because of that and because the supporters were clearly very aggressive and volatile," said Miss Houghton. At yesterday's hearing, prosecutor Richard Paterson said that after the match, between 10 and 15 Sheffield supporters went to Squares. They were asked to leave and were followed by a number of Norwich supporters. At that point there were only two police officers in the immediate area and they had to call for reinforcements. Cockaday was seen to force a Sheffield supporter to the ground while Mayo appeared to be goading the Sheffield fans by pacing back and forwards with his arms out. Then Cockaday started to goad the opposing fans. Mayo walked around effectively in a circle so that he was behind the Sheffield fans. He punched one of the fans from behind and that man fell to the ground. At the same time C******y was seen to walk towards the Sheffield group and punch one of them. More police officers had just arrived and the two defendants were detained. David Foulkes, for both men, said they were not arrested on the day, but later went to the police station to be interviewed by arrangement. Football fracas - two arrested February 2, 2004 18:17 Police arrested two rival football supporters after a fight broke out among 40 men following Saturday's match between Norwich City and Sheffield United. The fracas came after the Canaries' victory on what was a memorable day for fans with the first opening of a section of the new stand. Police said today that a Norwich City fan and a rival Sheffield supporter had both been arrested and charged with violent disorder after a fight broke shortly after the match near the Pizza Hut restaurant on Riverside. There was also some minor trouble in the ground during the match when three Sheffield supporters found themselves in the wrong part of the stadium, among Norwich supporters. Police spokeswoman Nina Goad said today: “It appears that a fight broke out between fans from Norwich and Sheffield following the match. At this time of day, there would have been other members of the public around, possible visiting the cinema, bowling alley or one of the restaurants, so it is possible people would have witnessed the disorder.” No injuries were reported. The two men, a 40-year-old from Norwich and a 35-year-old from Sheffield, were arrested at the scene and subsequently charged. The Sheffield man is due to appear before city magistrates on Friday and the Norwich man next Monday. Police are seeking to obtain football banning orders on both men. This evening, Neil Doncaster, Norwich City's chief executive, said he was not aware of any major problems within the ground during the match. “Everyone seemed to be behaving – some Sheffield supporters were moved to the right area for their own safety,” he said. Any witnesses to the fight afterwards are asked to contact keep their fuckin mouth shut. Man denies hooliganism charge - 08 January 2004 A MAN accused of being a football hooligan fought back tears as he told a jury he was badly beaten by the police officer who arrested him. J**n D*******re, of Brinsworth, Rotherham, has pleaded not guilty to a charge of violent disorder on May 4 last year. It is alleged Darbyshire had been the ringleader of a big gang of Sheffield United supporters who attacked police outside the Lescar pub on Sharrow Vale Road. D*******re, aged 48, claims police used excess force to arrest him and left him needing hospital treatment. He says he was unable to do his job as a milkman for two months. "I tried to tell the police officer that I wasn't part of the group who attacked him," said D*******re at Sheffield Crown Court. "I kept shouting 'it wasn't me' but he hit me about 14 times around the head and arms with his baton. "Then he rammed his shield into my body and started jabbing at my belly, which really hurt." The jury were shown pictures allegedly taken my D*******re's wife the day after his arrest, which include images of bruising to his knee, arms and stomach. The defendant also told the court that he was not a member of the group of United fans who bombarded police officers with bricks and other missiles. Darbyshire also denied the accusation that he was running at the forefront of the attacking mob of United fans, urging them on. The trial continues. 'A disgrace' 13 December 2003 THESE soccer hooligans have been locked up and banned from every stadium in the country for the "mindless and thuggish" siege of a South Yorkshire pub. The men hurled bottles, glasses, stools and snooker cues at officers from inside the Sportsman, in Denby Street, Sheffield, after the United versus Wednesday match in September last year. The mob, some of whom had been drinking all day, caused innocent drinkers, including young children, to shelter in the kitchen of the pub while the battle with police took place. A judge said they had "besmirched" the name of football and their behaviour was a disgrace. The men have been jailed for between six months and two years, banned from every football ground in the country for six years and will have to surrender their passports when England play away games. Sheffield Crown Court heard a "violent onslaught" against police started when police tried to detain a group of drinkers inside the Sportsman after a gang of Wednesday fans moved into the area. The mob, some described as "hangers-on" to Sheffield United's hooligan groups, soon became aggressive and launched a half hour attack on officers, during which 150 glasses were smashed, furniture, pool cues and ashtrays were broken, the landlady's car was scratched and four windows were shattered. Each man played a part in the attack, ranging from a couple of minutes to more than a quarter of an hour. Judge Patrick Robertshaw branded the behaviour "disgraceful". He said: "This was violence and disorder committed by a mob. "Football is supposedly the national game yet all too often its good name is besmirched by the mindless and thuggish behaviour of just such a kind that has brought you into the dock." After the sentencing DC Mark Oughton, who led the five month operation to catch and identify the mob, said the sentences would send out a strong message to potential trouble-causers. The officer, who along with DC Gary Rittler was commended by Judge Patrick Robertshaw for a "skilled" investigation, said the force will continue to come down hard on violence. DC Oughton said: "Hopefully it will act as a deterrent to the small minority of people who attend football matches with the intention of causing violence. "Football violence is a growing problem in Sheffield but we are always taking steps to combat it. We are pleased with the sentences. These people were not the main hooligans, they were hangers on or people just caught up in violence." ******* ******, 27, of Malin Bridge, was found guilty at trial and jailed for two years. ******* ******, 41, of Loxley, and **** *********, 35, of Atherton Road, Arbourthorne, were also found guilty at trial and jailed for 21 months. ***** *****, 37, of Parson Cross, and ****** *******, 42, of Arbour-thorne, admitted the charge and were jailed for 21 months. ***** ******, 21, of Westfield, was jailed for 18 months and **** *********, 20, of Rollestone, and **** ********, 20, of Waterthorpe, were detained in a young offenders centre for the same period. ***** ***** 24, of Meersbrook, was jailed for 12 months, **** ****** 37, of Penrith Road, Longley, received nine months as did ******* *******, 31, Gleadless, and ****** *******, 21, of Meersbrook, was jailed for six months. Another man, ***** ****, aged 33, of Wisewood, received a 200-hour community punishment order and a three-year ban. Sheff u v Cardiff - September 2003 story 1 Police say an investigation will be carried out into violent clashes between rival football fans in Sheffield. Trouble flared before and after the Division One match between Sheffield United and Cardiff City at Bramall Lane on Saturday. Police wearing protective equipment, mounted officers and the helicopter were brought in after officers learned that a group of Cardiff fans planned to arrive early in order to confront United supporters. The intelligence proved to be correct and the result was described by Superintendent Martin Hemingway as the worst football violence seen in South Yorkshire for many years. Five Cardiff supporters and one Sheffield fan were arrested - two of the Cardiff fans were charged with affray, one with threatening behaviour and two with disorderly conduct. The Sheffield supporter was charged with threatening behaviour. Two police officers and three Cardiff fans sustained minor injuries in the disturbance and one Cardiff supporter went to the Northern General Hospital in Sheffield where he was given treatment for a head injury story 2 Six held as football hooligan fears rise Football hooliganism is creeping back to taint the national game as fears grow for England's qualifying match against Turkey next month, according to police. Violent clashes between rival Cardiff City and Sheffield United supporters yesterday were described by South Yorkshire Police as the worst in years. Fans and police were injured and six people were arrested during the brawl when rival factions started throwing coins at each other and ended up attacking officers. Mounted officers and a police helicopter were called in after intelligence revealed a group of Cardiff fans planned to arrive in Sheffield early to confront local hooligans. More than 150 officers quelled the trouble which was described by a police spokesman as "the worst we've seen in many years". The six arrested - five from Cardiff and one from Sheffield - face a charges including affray, threatening behaviour and disorderly conduct. According to figures released by the Home Office, the number of fans arrested for causing trouble has risen by 19% in the last year. "That is a significant increase, it is up by a fifth," said Mark Steels from the National Criminal Intelligence Service (NCIS). The violence tends to occur away from the stadiums, but Mr Steels described the rise as "worrying". Mr Steels said law enforcement agencies and football organisations were "standing shoulder to shoulder" in an attempt to avoid problems at England's vital Euro 2004 qualifier in Turkey on October 11. At least 1,750 troublemakers have had their passports confiscated and are banned from travelling to Turkey. The Football Association did not accept its allocated tickets and has advised all fans to stay in the UK. story 3 Police scour CCTV for hooligans More arrests are expected following violence before and after Cardiff City's game at Sheffield United at the weekend. South Yorkshire Police are studying video evidence of clashes between rival supporters to identify offenders - so far five men from Cardiff and one from Sheffield have been charged. But some Cardiff fans believe the Police were heavy-handed - and say they have their own video footage to support their claims. Meanwhile, a senior police officer has defended the way officers reacted to the clashes. Chief Inspector Jim Haylett of South Yorkshire Police told BBC Wales there would have been "carnage" if officers in his force had not intervened when trouble broke out on Saturday following a league match at United's Bramall Lane ground. More arrests are expected following the clashes during which five Cardiff fans and one Sheffield supporter were arrested. But Cardiff City Supporters' Club spokesman Vince Alm has accused the police of failing to protect City fans from attack. He also said officers targeted them and ignored the Sheffield fans, who he claimed started the trouble. We look for build ups of people who are known to be involved in football violence Chief Inspector Jim Haylett According to Mr Haylett, a feature of the trouble was "the sheer amount of people that seemed intent on confrontation with both the police and the local hooligan group". He said: "We look for build-ups of people who are known to be involved in football violence. "You can see the congregations starting, conversations on mobile telephones, large groups of supporters moving en masse from one location to another. "As soon as there is an attempt to stop that they get aggressive." He said the tactic aimed to prevent the two sides getting together in the first place. But Mr Alm claimed most fans stayed outside the city in coaches before the game and some missed the kick-off because police refused to escort them to the game. He said: "Trouble flared after the game, and that was because we were all outside in the holding area and they hadn't secured the boundary. I think we're spoilt down in south Wales - our police are absolutely fantastic down here Vince Alm "About 100 of the local hooligans came down the side street and started wading into anybody, including women and children. "Cardiff City fans - who are not slow in coming forward when there is trouble, I'm not going to defend them - started retaliating. "They didn't start the fight." He added: "The police came charging down the road, didn't touch any Sheffield United fans whatsoever, and started attacking 13-year-old boys, women and men, round the head." He welcomed the police's review of video footage, adding that supporters had taken their own. He suggested South Yorkshire police could take lessons from their counterparts in south Wales. "I think we're spoilt down in south Wales - our police are absolutely fantastic down here. "We have very little trouble and they know exactly how to police a game. "Perhaps Jim Haylett should spend a few weeks down here." 22 September 2003 FANS RIOT SOCCER yobs caused some of the worst football violence seen in Sheffield for years as Blades and Cardiff hooligans ran riot. Two police officers were injured, one needing hospital treatment, as more than 150 riot officers tried to prevent vicious skirmishes between United and Welsh supporters. Violence erupted before and after Sheffield United's 5-3 victory at Bramall Lane on Saturday afternoon, with parts of the city centre turned into a battleground. Police had to call in re-inforcements from other forces as the level of brutality reached levels not seen for years. Officers were forced to use batons to keep the thugs apart during some scuffles. Police today promised they would use video and CCTV images to hunt the hooligans to the "limit of the law". Five Cardiff men were arrested and charged with offences related to the violence and one Sheffield United fan was also charged. All were released on bail to attend Sheffield Magistrates' Court. Several Welshmen were injured - three were treated on the spot by paramedics and one was taken to the Northern General Hospital with head injuries. Today, Match Commander, Supt Martin Hemmingway, slammed the yobs and praised his officers. "The enjoyment of a football match has been marred by the appalling behaviour of a minority who were intent of causing trouble," he said. "The level of violence towards police officers by Cardiff hooligans was extremely high. It was the worst we have seen in Sheffield for many years. "My officers did a superb job in ensuring large scale disorder was averted. In the circumstances many arrests were impossible but there will now be a full scale investigation to bring these people to justice." The two policemen who were injured were a football liaison officer from Cardiff and a Sheffield officer. The South Yorkshire officer had to be rescued by colleagues after being pulled into a mass of Cardiff yobs and kicked and punched to the ground. He was taken to hospital with the hand injury and was said to be "very lucky" to escape so lightly. The match was delayed by ten minutes as traffic chaos was caused by Sheffield yobs waiting to ambush the incoming Cardiff hooligans. Violence broke out at several locations in the city and around the ground in Randall Street, Bramall Lane and Harwood Street. Intelligence officers and the force helicopter were also working throughout the afternoon. 26 August 2003 Brawling yobs terrorise city theatre crowd DOZENS of Blades hooligans clashed with Derby County supporters in the first major yob battle of the football season. Up to 100 Sheffield United supporters left Surrey Street strewn with smashed glass, and theatregoers feared for their safety after the beer-fuelled flare up. The mob had been lying in wait for Sheffield Wednesday fans when about 15-20 Derby fans wandered into their path. Police said the rendezvous was organised to "settle" the confrontations which had been rumbling since Owls fans were allegedly involved in an incident at the Moor Foot Tavern weeks ago. Dozens of bottles were hurled across the street during that battle, after United's home game against Norwich. Riot police patrolled the streets until 11pm that night. Chief Insp Andy Eddison told The Star the mob in the latest fracas were waiting for Owls fans returning from their match at Peterborough on Saturday. "We knew there was going to be a showdown but the Derby fans got there first. We have absolutely no idea why they were even in the city. "It was an appalling incident and was very frightening for the scores of people visiting the city centre and going to nearby theatres. "The manager of the Surrey pub was left to clear up a large amount of broken glass." A spokesperson from the Surrey pub, who did not want to be named, said many of his locals fled as the mob arrived. He said: "We heard the incident outside and they then tried to get back into the pub so we had to close our doors." A 19-year-old from Parson Cross was arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and released on police bail. Police are examining CCTV. Anyone with information should phone Chief Insp Eddison on 0114 296 4059. 22 March 2003 Police probe Blades thugs film violence POLICE are investigating the legality of a controversial new video which shows fights involving members of the Blades Business Crew. Fists 'n' Style, which is due to be made available from Monday, includes footage of the notorious hooligan gang clashing with rival fans of other clubs, including Leeds United and Sheffield Wednesday. The Star has seen the film and talked to its maker. We can reveal it shows graphic scenes of violence, including a fan falling to the ground and being repeatedly kicked about the head. Another scene shows doormen at a Sheffield nightspot being bludgeoned with pick axe handles as they try to stop a large gang of men entering the premises. The film also contains footage of hooligans gathering in H Block of Bramall Lane's Laver Stand, which was recently closed due to escalating violence in that part of the ground. Each episode of violence is accompanied by a soundtrack taken from Shoreham Bootwalk, a collection of anti-Wednesday songs. Film-maker Steve Martin, of Pick Pocket Films, shadowed the Blades hooligans for 16 months to make the 65-minute documentary. He uses footage taken from CCTV cameras and his own covert camera. Faces of those taking part have been blanked out to protect their identity. The documentary also includes an interview with reformed hooligan Steve Cowens, author of a best selling Blades Business Crew book. Mr Martin said he was moved to make the film after reading reports of football violence on hooligan websites. He claims there was never an intention to glorify hooliganism, but simply to show it as it is. "There are worse things in life than two sets of lads engaging in fist fights between like-minded individuals," he said. "The film puts to bed the misconceptions. There is footage of offs between rival fans not for glorification or controversy's sake but because we believe it is a necessity in the context of the film." A spokesman for South Yorkshire Police said they were aware of a video tape being marketed for sale through the Internet and other sources and were currently making enquiries into its legality. The police spokesman said: "Hooliganism is an issue that blights modern football. It causes safety risks at football grounds and fear among genuine supporters and the wider public. "The necessary police response diverts officers from other duties and costs local taxpayers a considerable amount of money that would be better spent elsewhere. "Anything that glorifies the activities of hooligans is deplorable." 06 March 2003 City braced for football yob invasion POLICE are preparing to deal with up to 600 football hooligans at Sheffield United's FA Cup quarter final clash against Leeds. They expect about 250 known trouble makers to be among the fans travelling from Leeds for Sunday morning's tie, and are planning one of the largest police operations in the city this season. They also expect up to 100 Donny Whites, Leeds fans from Doncaster. They also expect around 250 Blades Business Crew (BBC) members, linked with trouble at Sheffield United games all season, to be at the match. The number of hooligans expected, and the police response, is as high as it was for the Sheffield derby at Bramall Lane in January. Police commanders are today preparing to put about 250 officers on duty on Sunday. Chief Insp Andy Eddison said: "Intellig-ence from West Yorkshire and other sources suggests as many as 250 known hooligans will travel to the game from Leeds. There will be up to 100 'Donny Whites' making the trip from Doncaster. "We will have British Transport Police officers along the route survey the Midland Station. "We expect as many as 250 known trouble makers linked with the BBC (Blades Business Crew)." City licensing chiefs have partially relented on their ban on supporters in the ground's lower tier. The council licensing committee decided on Tuesday to allow extra supporters into the lower tier of the Bramall Lane stand, where there was trouble at the last game the Blades and Leeds. But more than 2,000 seats in the Laver Stand, where BBC members are known to congregate, will only hold extra stewards. The ban follows ugly clashes after the Blades' Worthington Cup victory over Leeds last November, when seats were ripped out of the Bramall Lane stand and thrown onto supporters below. The new £50,000 mobile CCTV camera will survey Sheffield Midland Station and turnstiles. 24 January 2003 Victim of the yobs FURIOUS Dad Royce Hall today slammed football thugs who caused these terrible injuries to his teenage son. Blades fan Christopher Hall was today awaiting facial surgery after being hit by a flying glass in Liverpool's Arkles pub before Tuesday night's Worthington Cup semi. He suffered a broken jaw, facial lacerations and swelling, lost two front teeth and damaged a number of others as violence broke out between rival sets of fans. Witnesses saw the 16-year-old screaming as a glass smashed into his face during 30 seconds of mayhem at the pub. Mr Hall, of Zamor Crescent, Thurcroft, was by his side in Rotherham District General Hospital last night after collecting his son from Liverpool. He said: "I couldn't believe what had happened when I saw his face. It's awful. "My son wouldn't say 'boo' to a goose, he was just there to watch a game of football. "He's been in such pain because of what these hooligans have done." Grandmother Lynda McKenna, who travelled with Christopher and her own family on the same bus from Sheffield, said she has barely slept since. She said: "There was so much glass flying about that we had to duck for cover. "Then I saw this lad screaming, and there must have been half a pint of blood coming from his mouth." Blades fan Liz Burke said her friend Danielle Stokes, aged 23, was struck by a brick while in the same pub. Liz, also 23, said: "It was terrifying. We weren't hurt, but that doesn't stop you being scared. "After the game there were loads of stupid kids throwing things at the buses." The fans are the latest victims of the violence following Sheffield football matches this season. On Friday 13-year-old Emma Jayne Barker was hit on the head by a flare fired at Wednesday supporters during the Steel city derby at Bramall Lane. Police are examining CCTV evidence of the Arkles fracas, which is said to show Blades fans trashing it. Travelling supporters claim the venue was stormed by Liverpool supporters. After the game, a Blades fan needed hospital treatment after a brick was thrown through the window of a Sheffield United supporters coach. The 46-year-old man suffered cuts to his head and was taken to Aintree Hospital following the attack in Landford Avenue, Fazakerley. 05 November 2002 Hooligans in police clash BARNSLEY fans were among 300 hooligans who attacked police and tried to turn Sheffield city centre into a battlefield during the latest escalation of football violence. Police with riot shields had to use "stern methods" to break up gangs of rival hooligans as they came under attack from a barrage of bottles and missiles. The action prevented a large-scale pitched battle, but outbreaks of violence continued until the early hours of the morning. The Barnsley yobs had headed for Sheffield on their way to the club's away game at Chesterfield, but police say some remained in the city drinking rather than travelling on to the match There were also some Derby fans who had travelled with no intention of attending the Owls match. Sheffield United fans joined in clashes on their return from Nottingham. The main trouble happened between 6 and 8pm on Saturday in the Campo Lane area. The police helicopter monitored the movements of hooligans. Supt Martin Hemmingway, who oversaw the operation, said: "There were confrontations across the city centre, and officers had to use riot shields to protect themselves. It is very damaging for the reputation of Sheffield." Police made eight preventative arrests as they kept rival factions apart, and five were arrested at an incident in the Casbah club, where one person was seriously hurt in an assault. Officers also assisted doormen at the Brighton Beach event at Sheffield City Hall, to ensure those involved in stirring up trouble were unable to get inside. Senior officers are planning to have large numbers of police available for the potentially explosive cup clash between Sheffield United and Leeds United at Bramall Lane on Wednesday evening. 14 August 2002 Football thugs' sick challenge SHEFFIELD soccer thugs are preparing for an onslaught of violence to "improve" their position in a Home Office football violence league table, police believe. The Government has published details of each club's record of trouble, including numbers of fans arrested and banned from attending matches. But within days of the information being released South Yorkshire Police intelligence officers were reporting feedback that key troublemakers in Sheffield were planning a campaign of increased violence this season. Police believe football hooligans in other towns and cities have taken the same approach, which could lead to spiralling problems in the season ahead. South Yorkshire Police are now planning to approach the Home Office with their concerns over the release of the information. Supt Martin Hemmingway, responsible for policing at Bramall Lane, said: "We have had feedback about various hooligan elements, including our own, not being satisfied with their position in the Government league table and intimating they will be doing everything they can to 'improve' their position. "It has given some a grudge – other hooligan elements are more dangerous than they are. They need a higher sense of self-esteem, in their own twisted way. We will be making our observations known to the Home Office." Supt Hemmingway said he believed the tables provided thugs with "an objective measure of how notorious other people think they are". Police have already persuaded Sheffield United to put back their Bank Holiday Monday match this month because of fears the clash with Millwall would end in trouble. Blades fans were caught up in brawling in Coventry at the first match of the season on Saturday and then again in Derby city centre as they travelled home. And details have also emerged about organised attempts to create mayhem in Sheffield city centre when Stoke fans visited Hillsborough. Police escorted visiting fans to and from the ground in a convoy, but Supt Hemmingway said a mob of about 50 Sheffield troublemakers gathered following a series of mobile telephone conversations and were "heading straight for the police escort" at one point. Stern intervention from officers prevented trouble from escalating, and he also praised the Pub Watch organisation, which helped to minimise problems by closing city centre bars. Derby v Sheff U - Monday, 12 August, 2002, CCTV clues to football hooligans Hooligans caused serious damage to two pubs Police are looking at CCTV footage to identify hundreds of football fans who ran riot in Derby city centre. Violence erupted after two coachloads of Sheffield United fans stopped off in Derby after travelling back from watching a game in Coventry. About 150 fans from the Yorkshire club attacked two pubs near The Spot before fighting broke out with Derby County fans at about 1830 BST on Saturday. Police said they had no tip-offs about the visit and had stood down after the game between Reading and Derby had earlier passed off peacefully. Running battles Video tapes of the fighting have been recovered from business premises and the city's CCTV system. Detectives from Derbyshire Police say they will spend the next few days examining the footage and expect to make further arrests. The coaches stopped in London Road and the Sheffield fans attacked two nearby pubs causing thousands of pounds worth of damage. Running battles then began between the Sheffield fans and Derby County supporters in St Peter's Street. After police regained control, the Sheffield fans were searched and photographed by police before being transported out of the county. story 2 A MOB of Sheffield United supporters involved in running battles with police and rival fans should be banned from football for life, a Government minister said today. Sports Minister and Sheffield MP Richard Caborn said thugs who ran amok in Derby after stopping off on the way home from the Coventry City match deserved to be banned from the game for life. Derbyshire Police said the trouble were the worst case of football related violence in Derby for years. Officers are now studying CCTV recordings in an effort to identify those involved. Police say ten witnesses have come forward and others are being urged to contact Derbyshire Police. Sheffield Central MP Mr Caborn said: "For this to have happened on the first day of the new season is extremely disappointing and I hope the police will do all they can to avoid it happening again. "The Government has given officers the full power of the law to act against football hooligans and I hope it is used. "Bans have been used before and I hope they will be used in this instance for those identified as being involved in the trouble. "I will support the police in seeking the bans and would hope that anyone banned from other games will be ordered to report to police stations on match days. "The people involved in this violence aren't football fans, they are hooligans - who have damaged the reputation of the club for the rest of the Sheffield United club and its genuine fans." The trouble came after South Yorkshire police announced the Blades' planned bank holiday Monday match against Millwall had been put back until Tuesday night because of the threat of violence. Three men from the Sheffield area were arrested during the disturbances in Derby and face charges of violent disorder and assault. A police spokesman said it was fortunate no one had been seriously injured. Sgt Mick Goacher, of the Derbyshire force, said it was one of the most serious outbreaks of football violence seen in Derby for years. "There was extensive damage caused to pubs in the area and officers were subjected to a barrage of missiles for well over an hour as they tried to keep the opposing groups apart. "The arrival of the Sheffield United fans caught us completely unaware, though I cannot rule out that the incident had not been arranged between the two sets of fans prior to the incident. "Fortunately we had a number of officers deployed in the town as part of operation to police the Derby County versus Reading game and were able to cope." The Blades mob, thought to number more than 150, arrived in Derby at around 6.30pm and were confronted by a similar sized group of local men. Police were called when a pitched battle started in the Peter Street area of the city centre. Windows in several pubs were broken in what Derbyshire Police describe as "large scale public disorder". Officers also came under a barrage of bricks, glasses and bottles as they tried to keep the groups apart. Eventually peace was restored by officers using dogs. The force helicopter was also deployed. The Blades fans were put on coaches and given a police escort back to Sheffield. The game between Sheffield Wednesday and Stoke game passed off without major incident thanks to a massive operation by South Yorkshire Police Stoke fans were ferried via Supertram to the ground from Sheffield Midland Station. Then after the game officers escorted a large group of Stoke fans who walked down Penistone Road back to the station. Wednesdayites gathering in the town centre were monitored by other officers to ensure the two groups did not clash. Sheffield Utd v Sheffield Wed SOCCER yobs attacked police and took over a Sheffield pub in the worst of a series of derby match incidents in the city centre. The Sportsman pub, near the Blades' ground, was surrounded by 100 officers with fans eventually led out in twos and photographed as the first stage of a police investigation into the trouble. The Denby Street landlady and her staff had been forced to abandon the bar as trouble flared among Blades' yobs following an attack on police outside. Police had mounted a high profile crowd control operation for the match, which started at Sunday lunchtime to minimise pre-match drinking and potential violence. Senior officers described the operation around the stadium as a success, with three arrests before kick-off and three more after the match near the ground. The problems at the Sportsman appeared to involve only United supporters who attacked police and turned on the pub, known as a gathering point for Blades followers. A force spokesman said: "Officers came under attack from bottles. We called for re-inforcements and the situation seemed to unleash itself. The pub was trashed." One person was arrested in connection with the incident at the Sportsman but police say further arrests may follow as they make further inquiries to confirm the identities of those responsible for attacking officers and wrecking the pub. Police said they had a "busy" evening in the city centre dealing with soccer fans and there was another skirmish between fans near the Royal Standard pub in St Mary's Road. The violence meant the football match operation - which had started on Saturday evening - was extended into the early hours of this morning. Indications from the start of the football season suggest hooliganism problems may become increasingly worse for Sheffield's teams. United fans have already been involved in trouble at Coventry and Derby and police reported problems with fans following the Owls' match with Rotherham. 10 August 2002 Sheffield United & Derby A MOB of Sheffield United supporters were involved in running battles with police and rival fans after they stopped off in Derby on the way home from the Coventry City match. Police say it was the worst case of football related violence seen in Derby for years. But trouble in Sheffield for the visit of Stoke City was averted after a massive police operation. The Blades mob, thought to number more than 150, arrived in Derby at around 6.30pm and were confronted by a similar sized group of local men. Police were called when a pitched battle started in the Peter Street area of the city centre. Windows in several pubs were broken in what Derbyshire Police describe as "large scale public disorder". Officers also came under a barrage of bricks, glasses and bottles as they tried to keep the groups apart. Eventually peace was restored by officers using dogs and the force helicopter. The Blades fans were placed onto coaches and given a police escort back to Sheffield. The trouble came 24 hours after South Yorkshire police announced the Blades' bank holiday home match against Millwall had been put back until Tuesday night because of the threat of violence. 17 November 2001 Sheffield United v Birmingham City A police officer was injured trying to separate fighting fans at Sheffield Midland Rail Station after the match. Fighting broke out on a platform when West Bromwich Albion fans returning from Rotherham clashed with Birmingham supporters. 16 March 2002 Sheffield United v West Bromwich Albion Trouble broke out in the ground after the match was abandoned when Sheffield United were left with just six players on the pitch. There was also fighting outside the ground in a match marred by fighting on the pitch as well. 21 April 2001 Grimsby Town v Sheffield United After match, Grimsby supporters gathered in a public house and a search was made for away fans but all the pubs were fairly quiet although some were closed. Officers were supervising this pub when the decision was made to stand most of them down just before 6 pm. Some five minutes later a call was received from the licensee of the a public house which had contained Sheffield supporters, stating public disorder had taken place in the pub with around 80 split between rival groups, glasses thrown and tables damaged. All was quiet on the arrival of the officers. Disorder near Sheffield 25/03/2001 A confrontation took place about 5.30 pm at licensed premises in Mosborough, near Sheffield, between rival groups that associate themselves with the two Sheffield clubs. Queens Park Rangers v Sheffield United 03/03/2001 - Nationwide League Division 1 Over 50 Sheffield United supporters travelled by train to London. Pre-match was trouble free but after the game the group made their way to Kings Cross area where they were attacked by Tottenham fans resulting in two fans receiving head injuries from broken bottles. After a brief stand-off the police dispersed the groups and they were taken to St Pancras and placed on a train. 17th December 2000 Wednesday v United More than 30 football hooligans have been arrested after rival fans from Sheffield Wednesday and Sheffield United rioted through the streets of the city centre. The violence is thought to have been an organised confrontation after the derby match. Police wearing riot gear used CS gas and batons to disperse the "highly aggressive" 300-strong crowd, who clashed just hours after their respective sides had drawn 1-1 at Sheffield United's Brammall Lane ground. Running battles between both sets of supporters and police began when a tram carrying 150 Sheffield Wednesday fans stopped on the city's West Street, where more than 100 rival supporters had spent the afternoon drinking in local pubs. For almost an hour 100 police officers, who had been monitoring the city centre for trouble, attempted to restrain violent thugs who had planned the gathering through mobile phones, arranging to meet at a certain venue. "It was the fact that they couldn't get to each other for the organised punch-up which frustrated the fans and sparked it all off," said a spokesman for South Yorkshire Police, who had deployed a further 200 officers to cover the match. "The fans then became highly aggressive towards the police, and officers had to use CS gas and baton to disperse the crowd." Admitting that there had always been a possibility of trouble, the spokesman added: "Obviously there was a heavy police presence at the match so they weren't like to pre-arranged anything for that. "It seems to have been done very, very quickly after the match via mobile phones." There was always that possibility of trouble, bearing in mind the history between the two clubs," said the spokesman. "This was the first League match for almost seven years between the two sides." Sheffield United v Grimsby Town 18/11/2000 - Nationwide League Division One After the above match a group of Grimsby Town supporters went to Meadowhall interchange and attacked at group of Arab students. The group was subjected to racial abuse and an assault to one victim. 25th October 2000 Rival fans clash on rail network From thisissheffield.co.uk FOOTBALL violence is escalating on South Yorkshire's railway network - almost reaching the same levels as the late 1970s, transport police warned today Officers have to cope with fans from the five South Yorkshire teams as well as others travelling through Sheffield. Sgt Don Lorimer, of Sheffield's British Transport Police, believes the hooligan problem has never gone away and is now on the increase again. He said: "We regularly have to travel on the trains with fans to try to keep the lid on things. It is getting bad again. "Anyone who thinks this problem has gone away is burying their head in the sand - it never has and is steadily growing worse once again with many smaller clubs' fans causing problems." Five major networks pass through Sheffield meaning fans often stop off causing extra headaches for police. Sgt Lorimer said: "The other week we had Manchester United here en route to Leicester and there were problems. We are also getting increasing problems with Chesterfield as borne out on Saturday with 500 Brighton fans travelling. "It was an extremely volatile situation and we had to travel with them on the train all the way back to London". 5 Febuary 2000 Disorder in Sheffield City Centre On their return from their fixture at Derby a group of around 200 Sheffield Wednesday walked en mass through the city centre and entered a public house. At 7.50pm a group of 150 Sheffield United supporters made their way to where the Sheffield Wednesday supporters were drinking. Some were carrying glasses or bottles and most had their faces covered with hoods or scarves. It was apparent that disorder had been arranged via mobile phones. As the Sheffield United group approached the police a number of missiles including bottles, glasses and stones were thrown. The police officers present at that time, attempted to keep the groups apart. The Sheffield United group then attacked the police. A police officer was knocked to the floor and kicked about the body and head. He was rescued as more officers got to the scene and he was taken to hospital with a suspected broken jaw. Running fights then took place throughout the city centre. The United supporters then attacked another public house. This group, numbering around 50, attempted to force their way into the premises. The doorstaff were able to close the doors and the police again prevented a serious incident arising. Operational support was called at 8.50pm and officers from the surrounding districts attended. No further problems resulted. A team of officers were set up to look at this incident with a view to making retrospective arrests for serious public order offences.

11th Feb 2004 POLICE are investigating an attack on several Sheffield Wednesday fans by thugs linked with Stoke City's hooligan crew. Violence involving up to 30 people flared outside Stoke train station as Wednesday fans made their way home from their fixture with Port Vale. Police say a number of Stoke City thugs stayed in their area rather than travelling to watch their team play Milwall to attack Owls followers, after the game. One man has been arrested and bailed in connection with the violence and more are expected in the coming days. The violence comes hours after nine Wednesday supporters were arrested in connection with trouble at Vale Park. Pc Tony Drinkwater said: "From the information we have so far, it appears a number of Stoke hooligans that did not travel to Millwall deliberately targeted this group of Wednesday fans." Police are appealing for any witnesses to contact them on Sheff u - Sheff w 24 January 2003 Victim of the yobs FURIOUS Dad Royce Hall today slammed football thugs who caused these terrible injuries to his teenage son. Blades fan Christopher Hall was today awaiting facial surgery after being hit by a flying glass in Liverpool's Arkles pub before Tuesday night's Worthington Cup semi. He suffered a broken jaw, facial lacerations and swelling, lost two front teeth and damaged a number of others as violence broke out between rival sets of fans. Witnesses saw the 16-year-old screaming as a glass smashed into his face during 30 seconds of mayhem at the pub. Mr Hall, of Zamor Crescent, Thurcroft, was by his side in Rotherham District General Hospital last night after collecting his son from Liverpool. He said: "I couldn't believe what had happened when I saw his face. It's awful. "My son wouldn't say 'boo' to a goose, he was just there to watch a game of football. "He's been in such pain because of what these hooligans have done." Grandmother Lynda McKenna, who travelled with Christopher and her own family on the same bus from Sheffield, said she has barely slept since. She said: "There was so much glass flying about that we had to duck for cover. "Then I saw this lad screaming, and there must have been half a pint of blood coming from his mouth." Blades fan Liz Burke said her friend Danielle Stokes, aged 23, was struck by a brick while in the same pub. Liz, also 23, said: "It was terrifying. We weren't hurt, but that doesn't stop you being scared. "After the game there were loads of stupid kids throwing things at the buses." The fans are the latest victims of the violence following Sheffield football matches this season. On Friday 13-year-old Emma Jayne Barker was hit on the head by a flare fired at Wednesday supporters during the Steel city derby at Bramall Lane. Police are examining CCTV evidence of the Arkles fracas, which is said to show Blades fans trashing it. Travelling supporters claim the venue was stormed by Liverpool supporters. After the game, a Blades fan needed hospital treatment after a brick was thrown through the window of a Sheffield United supporters coach. The 46-year-old man suffered cuts to his head and was taken to Aintree Hospital following the attack in Landford Avenue, Fazakerley. Sheff Wed - july 2002 Five known trouble making Owls "fans" have had their passports temporarily taken from them - as English officials look to play their part in ensuring hooligans will play no part in this year's FIFA World Cup in Japan and Korea. Some 1000 English football hooligans are being prevented from leaving the country for the next month or so, with the World Cup kicking off in just ten days time. The Owls have themselves attempted to stamp out hooliganism and racism at Wednesday's games, but sadly outbursts from this pathetic minority of "fans" were seen in games against Burnley at Hillsborough and also away games against Millwall, Stockport County and Blackburn Rovers. In particular there were problems at Ewood Park for the Worthington League Cup Semi-final. Riot police were called in to confront a small minority of travelling Wednesday supporters who got out of control. A full investigation by the South Yorkshire police followed when many other Owls fans complained of being physically abused by the riot police for no apparent reason. Those five Owls "fans" make up only 0.5% of English football fans who are banned from travelling to the Far East in June and July, but a few of Wednesday's rival clubs have more hooligans who will be kept on English land. Rotherham United and Sheffield United both have 10 fans banned, with local nutters Chesterfield Town having had 12 banned. "Supporters" from Leeds United, Stoke City and Cardiff City - three English clubs with bad hooligan records - make up an astonishing 17% of all banned English hooligans. 1 April 2002 Grimsby Town v Sheffield Wednesday Trouble in Cleethorpes after the match led to 17 arrests. Police came under attack from a hail of missiles from Sheffield Wednesday supporters. There were further outbreaks of disorder at the railway station and two fans were bitten by a police dog. 01/04/02 Grimsby Town-Sheffield Wednesday FOOTBALL fans went on the rampage in Cleethorpes following the relegation battle between Grimsby Town and Sheffield Wednesday. Scores of police officers, some wearing body armour, were drafted in yesterday as a series of flare-ups escalated into scenes of violence close to the resort's train station. Tourists enjoying the bank holiday break in Cleethorpes looked on in disbelief, as alcohol-fuelled thugs from Sheffield threw missiles and hurled abuse at police officers, police dogs and officers on horseback. At one point a policeman and a fan fell onto the track after a scuffle on the platform. In all 17 arrests were made for general public disorder offences. The ugly scenes followed the 0-0 draw, after which a large section of Grimsby Road was closed off to prevent rival fans clashing. Supporters of both teams were locked up. Following the match Sheffield Wednesday fans congregated outside The Submarine pub on Sea Road. Eight officers on horseback accompanied by scores of police officers on foot supervised the supporters and separated them from rival fans. On several occasions officers chased smaller groups who broke away from the crowd as they ran towards the town centre. "Initially there were some serious disturbances in the centre of Cleethorpes which were contained and managed by officers who were working the match. Additional resources were called in from other parts of the force to support police officers as there was the potential for further violence." Most of the visiting fans who headed for Cleethorpes boarded the 7.15pm train back to Sheffield. Chief Supt Sharp added: "Because of the behaviour of the Sheffield fans and the amount of alcohol they had consumed they were closely supervised from Sea Road to the railway station. "At the station there were sporadic incidents of disorder and arrests were made." During this disorder police dogs were brought in and two fans were bitten. These two men were later arrested along with 15 other Sheffield Wednesday and Grimsby Town fans for general public disorder offences. Chief Supt White said: "Although at times there were difficult bouts to police, considering there was a capacity crowd, the majority of people seemed to have a very good day." Minor injuries were suffered by police officers, including one who had a bottle thrown at her. No one required medical treatment. 13 April 2002 Wednesday v United Around 300 supporters had to be kept apart at Sheffield Midland Rail Station when Wednesday fans travelling from Stockport were confronted by those from Sheffield United. 21 April 2002 Sheffield Wednesday v Wolverhampton Wanderers Sheffield United hooligans (the "Blades Business Crew") attempted to ambush Wolves supporters at the railway station before the game. They had decided not to follow their own team. There were 14 arrests. Trouble continued closer to the ground between Wolves and Sheffield Wednesday supporters. During the game around 500 Wolves fans in the home seating area of the ground were moved into an empty corner of the stadium. After the match the trouble continued with three rival groups of supporters roaming the city centre looking for trouble. Two police officers and a steward were injured during clashes during the day 8 January 2000 Sheffield Wednesday v Wolverhampton Wanderers FA Cup Supporters from both teams clashed in the town centre after this fixture. Windows were smashed in a public house during the disorder. Four supporters from Sheffield Wednesday and one from Wolves were arrested during the disorder. 23 February 2002 Sheffield Wednesday v Rotherham United During the match riot police joined stewards to hold back a mob trying to climb from the main stand into the Leppings Lane end. After the game about 50 Sheffield United fans, whose team was playing in London, made their way to the Brown Bear pub in the City Centre, where they confronted a similar sized mob of Wednesday hooligans. They fought outside the pub until the police arrived to split them up. There were further clashes later in the evening. 16 March 2002 Millwall v Sheffield Wednesday Millwall hooligans attacked Sheffield Wednesday supporters as they left the ground. Police officers were hit with bricks and bottles and two needed hospital treatment. Southampton v Sheffield Wednesday 27/01/01 - FA Cup A group of about 20 Wednesday fans arrived early by rail and went into a local public house. An incident occurred inside the premises between rival supporters, resulting in a local man being wounded by one of the visitors. He was taken to hospital by ambulance with a head injury. A suspect was arrested shortly after the incident. 22 September 2001 Sheffield Wednesday v Manchester City On the same day Sheffield United were away at Millwall. As their hooligans returned to the station they met the departing Manchester City fans. There were running battles at the station and in the city centre. At around 10pm there was serious disorder at the station where police officers were attacked. Four officers were injured and one was nearly killed. The train departed with the Manchester City hooligans on board but there was continuing trouble throughout the journey. Sheffield Wednesday v Crewe Alexandra A football steward was kicked unconscious outside the stadium as he returned to his car Sheffield Utd v Sheffield Wed SOCCER yobs attacked police and took over a Sheffield pub in the worst of a series of derby match incidents in the city centre. The Sportsman pub, near the Blades' ground, was surrounded by 100 officers with fans eventually led out in twos and photographed as the first stage of a police investigation into the trouble. The Denby Street landlady and her staff had been forced to abandon the bar as trouble flared among Blades' yobs following an attack on police outside. Police had mounted a high profile crowd control operation for the match, which started at Sunday lunchtime to minimise pre-match drinking and potential violence. Senior officers described the operation around the stadium as a success, with three arrests before kick-off and three more after the match near the ground. The problems at the Sportsman appeared to involve only United supporters who attacked police and turned on the pub, known as a gathering point for Blades followers. A force spokesman said: "Officers came under attack from bottles. We called for re-inforcements and the situation seemed to unleash itself. The pub was trashed." One person was arrested in connection with the incident at the Sportsman but police say further arrests may follow as they make further inquiries to confirm the identities of those responsible for attacking officers and wrecking the pub. Police said they had a "busy" evening in the city centre dealing with soccer fans and there was another skirmish between fans near the Royal Standard pub in St Mary's Road. The violence meant the football match operation - which had started on Saturday evening - was extended into the early hours of this morning. Indications from the start of the football season suggest hooliganism problems may become increasingly worse for Sheffield's teams. United fans have already been involved in trouble at Coventry and Derby and police reported problems with fans following the Owls' match with Rotherham. Sheffield Wednesday v Barnsley 21/04/2001 - Nationwide League Division One Prior to the game, a group of Sheffield supporters attempted a confrontation with the visiting group. Missiles were thrown, but order was restored by police. After the game, police prevented confrontation with rivals on the outer concourse and mounted police dispersed a group of Sheffield supporters. The Barnsley supporters were escorted out of the city. Stockport County v Sheffield Wednesday 07/04/2001 - Nationwide League Division 1 Small skirmishes broke out in the town centre prior to kick-off. Following the game, the Sheffield supporters drank in a public house until 6 pm and were then escorted back towards the railway network. As the escort reached the market area individuals broke from the group, prompting a police response with batons to encourage them back into the escort. This was achieved without further trouble. On arrival at Stockport railway station, the group was corralled until shuttle coaches arrived and conveyed them to Manchester railway station, under police escort. Individuals were arrested for public order at that location. The Sheffield group was encouraged to catch the first return train. BTP escorted the train. A South Yorkshire Police public order unit met the train upon its arrival. Sheffield Wednesday v Burnley 17/03/2001 - Nationwide League Division 1 At 11.10 am a train arrived from Burnley via Manchester. About 25 Burnley supporters alighted and walked across towards a public house. They were confronted by a similar sized group of Sheffield United supporters and police used batons to disperse the two groups. The United group later left by rail to Huddersfield without problems. After the match a group of Sheffield Wednesday supporters outside the stadium attempted to confront a small group of Burnley fans. They were dispersed by mounted police and made their way to their 'local' at Hillsborough Corner. The Burnley supporters were located after the match and monitored until they left the city by rail. Later in the evening damage was caused to a pub in the city centre when two local rival groups from United and Wednesday clashed. A short time later another pub near the railway station was also subjected to windows being smashed when rivals clashed. Two groups of rivals, 25/30 strong, were located police officers and monitored until they dispersed later in the evening. Disorder near Sheffield 25/03/2001 A confrontation took place about 5.30 pm at licensed premises in Mosborough, near Sheffield, between rival groups that associate themselves with the two Sheffield clubs. Sheffield Wednesday v Bolton Wanderers 20/01/01 - Nationwide League Division1 After the match a fight involving a group over 30 rival supporters was reported at Hillsborough Corner. Upon police arrival at the scene, the groups had dispersed. One supporter sustained a facial injury which required medical attention. Southampton v Sheffield Wednesday 27/01/01 - FA Cup A group of about 20 Wednesday fans arrived early by rail and went into a local public house. An incident occurred inside the premises between rival supporters, resulting in a local man being wounded by one of the visitors. He was taken to hospital by ambulance with a head injury. A suspect was arrested shortly after the incident. 17th December 2000 Wednesday v United More than 30 football hooligans have been arrested after rival fans from Sheffield Wednesday and Sheffield United rioted through the streets of the city centre. The violence is thought to have been an organised confrontation after the derby match. Police wearing riot gear used CS gas and batons to disperse the "highly aggressive" 300-strong crowd, who clashed just hours after their respective sides had drawn 1-1 at Sheffield United's Brammall Lane ground. Running battles between both sets of supporters and police began when a tram carrying 150 Sheffield Wednesday fans stopped on the city's West Street, where more than 100 rival supporters had spent the afternoon drinking in local pubs. For almost an hour 100 police officers, who had been monitoring the city centre for trouble, attempted to restrain violent thugs who had planned the gathering through mobile phones, arranging to meet at a certain venue. "It was the fact that they couldn't get to each other for the organised punch-up which frustrated the fans and sparked it all off," said a spokesman for South Yorkshire Police, who had deployed a further 200 officers to cover the match. "The fans then became highly aggressive towards the police, and officers had to use CS gas and baton to disperse the crowd." Admitting that there had always been a possibility of trouble, the spokesman added: "Obviously there was a heavy police presence at the match so they weren't like to pre-arranged anything for that. "It seems to have been done very, very quickly after the match via mobile phones." There was always that possibility of trouble, bearing in mind the history between the two clubs," said the spokesman. "This was the first League match for almost seven years between the two sides." Sheffield United v Sheffield Wednesday 16/12/00 - Nationwide League Division 1 There was serious disorder in Sheffield City centre after this fixture. At 5.30 pm a group of 250 United supporters appeared at a public house in the city centre. At same time over 200 Wednesday supporters left Hillsborough and boarded the supertram to the city centre. The rival groups made their way to West Street. Police formed a cordon across the road when the Wednesday group alighted from the supertram and the pub containing the United group was surrounded by police in an attempt to prevent confrontation and serious disorder. Batons and CS incapcitants were used when the United group did a starburst from the pub and the Wednesday group charged the police line. The United group caused damage to the pub. Both groups were dispersed, but fighting broke out in different parts of the centre. The two main groups were gradually fragmented following police searches and in excess of 30 arrests were made. Huddersfield Town v Sheffield Wednesday 30/12/2000 Nationwide League Division1 After this fixture fighting broke out between rival groups in the town centre. A group of Huddersfield supporters attacked the Sheffield supporters at a local public house. Police dispersed the groups and the Sheffield supporters were removed and taken under escort back to the railway station. 25th October 2000 Rival fans clash on rail network From thisissheffield.co.uk FOOTBALL violence is escalating on South Yorkshire's railway network - almost reaching the same levels as the late 1970s, transport police warned today Officers have to cope with fans from the five South Yorkshire teams as well as others travelling through Sheffield. Sgt Don Lorimer, of Sheffield's British Transport Police, believes the hooligan problem has never gone away and is now on the increase again. He said: "We regularly have to travel on the trains with fans to try to keep the lid on things. It is getting bad again. "Anyone who thinks this problem has gone away is burying their head in the sand - it never has and is steadily growing worse once again with many smaller clubs' fans causing problems." Five major networks pass through Sheffield meaning fans often stop off causing extra headaches for police. Sgt Lorimer said: "The other week we had Manchester United here en route to Leicester and there were problems. We are also getting increasing problems with Chesterfield as borne out on Saturday with 500 Brighton fans travelling. "It was an extremely volatile situation and we had to travel with them on the train all the way back to London". Tranmere Rovers v Sheffield Wednesday 16/09/00 - Nationwide League Division 1 After this fixture a group of 50 Sheffield Wednesday supporters tried to confront a group of 20 Tranmere supporters. Police escorted the Sheffield Wednesday supporters to the Railway Station preventing any disorder. 29 April 2000 Sheffield Wednesday v Leeds Utd A group of Leeds supporters numbering around 80 in number took the local tram towards the ground. During the journey they vandalised the tram disabling it. Police attended the scene to keep rival groups apart. The police then escorted the Leeds group to and from the stadium preventing disorder. Later that evening Sheffield Wednesday supporters clashed with Sheffield United supporters. This led to eight arrests for public order offences. 8 January 2000 Sheffield Wednesday v Wolverhampton Wanderers FA Cup Supporters from both teams clashed in the town centre after this fixture. Windows were smashed in a public house during the disorder. Four supporters from Sheffield Wednesday and one from Wolves were arrested during the disorder. 31 July 1999 Rotherham v Sheffield Wednesday Pre Season Friendly At this match the visitors' end of the ground was filled to near capacity, with just over 3,000 supporters in attendance. Some of the visiting supporters entered the Rotherham end of the ground. Fighting broke out during the match, a number of arrests were made and the visiting Sheffield Wednesday supporters were transferred into their end of the ground. At the end of the match a large number of Sheffield Wednesday supporters went to a public house in the town centre where Rotherham supporters were drinking. Officers were outside the premises monitoring the situation when the windows were smashed from inside by chairs and fire extinguishers being thrown through them. The visiting Sheffield Wednesday supporters were running amok inside helping themselves to the alcohol. Officers in protective clothing entered the pub and a number of arrests were made. A large group of Sheffield Wednesday supporters were then escorted to the railway station and put onto a train. 14 August 1999 Bradford City v Sheffield Wednesday After the match a large group of Bradford supporters went to their usual public house in the city centre. At about 6pm this group then went to another nearby public house, where a number of Sheffield Wednesday supporters were drinking. The Bradford supporters threw bottles and glasses at the visitors and tables and chairs were knocked over. Police responded to the incident and prevented it escalating. The Sheffield supporters were requested to vacate the premises and were then escorted to the railway station. 16 October 1999 Leeds v Sheffield Wednesday Prior to this fixture a group of around 30 Leeds supporters attacked a group of 20 Sheffield Wednesday supporters in a local public house. Glasses, bottles and chairs were thrown during the disorder and as a result several people sustained cuts from flying glass. Police attended and order was restored. After the game a large group of Leeds supporters attempted to confront Sheffield supporters but were prevented from doing so by mounted branch officers

York v Doncaster rovers - November 2003 York braced for trouble as football yobs head to city by Evening Press reporter FOOTBALL hooligans from Doncaster are planning to create havoc at tomorrow's Yorkshire derby match with York City. Extra police officers, including mounted officers and dog handlers, will be on duty in the city centre and around the ground for the game. Specialist North Yorkshire Police officers trained in dealing with public order incidents will also be deployed. South Yorkshire Police is doubling its number of hooligan "spotters" from two to four. The force is also sending two public order trained evidence gatherers, who film football crowds. Pc Paul Maloney, York police football liaison officer, said about 50 Doncaster hooligans were expected to be among the thousands travelling to the all-ticket match. Pc Maloney said: "We are expecting some problems both inside and outside the ground. The matches that Doncaster have played so far this season indicates that and so appropriate police resources will be deployed." Pc Maloney said there was no intelligence suggesting York City's hooligans were planning any trouble. But he said: "Our hooligan element have caused problems this season at several matches, but when they have been travelling away rather than here in York." PC Andy Baker, South Yorkshire Police football intelligence officer, said: "The intelligence started rolling in on this weeks ago. Our hooligan element are looking at this game as a really big one." Pc Baker said intelligence suggested Leeds supporters would also be in York looking for a fight. British Transport Police Sergeant Mark Seales said there would be a heavy police presence at York station. "It will be policed firmly," he said. North Yorkshire police declined to say how many extra police would be involved. Chief superintendent John Lacy, York and Selby area commander, said people living near Bootham Crescent had received leaflets telling them of the heavy police presence. "This is a high category match," he said. story 2 Soccer hooligans cause pub havoc A LANDLORD told today how his pub resembled a scene from the Wild West as brawling soccer fans brought chaos to York city centre. Two women customers were hurt and a party of elderly tourists was showered with glass and beer when up to 30 York City and Doncaster Rovers fans clashed at the Golden Lion in Church Street. "I have been here four years and I have never seen anything like it," said landlord John Raw. "It was like something from the Wild West." Trouble also erupted elsewhere in the city centre, and pubs were counting the cost today after closing their doors to customers for several hours amid warnings about troublemakers. Gillian Cruddas, chief executive of York Tourism Bureau, spoke of her concern today about the impact of the trouble on York's reputation for tourists. "This is potentially very damaging to the tourist industry, even if it was a one-off," she said. "If people have had this sort of experience they not only don't want to come again, but they also tell other people what happened when they went to York." At the Golden Lion, Mr Raw said a woman suffered pain in her lower back after being pushed down some stairs, and another suffered a cut to her head. "A group of elderly people sitting by the door - tourists - were showered in glass and beer. They were soaked and not best pleased." He said the fans fled after police arrived "very quickly" on the scene. Another pub hit by hooligans was The Punch Bowl, in Blossom Street. A spokesman for operators Wetherspoons said Doncaster fans inside were called out by "baying" York fans and a punch-up ensued, during which two windows were broken. A man came into the pub after having been "glassed" outside. The pub shut for 90 minutes. Police said Saturday's trouble could have been a lot worse but for a highly visible police presence before and after the Yorkshire derby game between City and Rovers. Officers had anticipated trouble, predicting that about 50 Doncaster hooligans would make the trip to York, and extra officers, including mounted police and dog handlers, were drafted in to deal with the trouble. South Yorkshire Police also doubled its hooligan spotters from two to four for the occasion and sent two public order specialists to film the football crowds. Sgt Richard Hall said: "A mindless minority decided to cause problems instead of just enjoying the game. A few arrests were made but a lot of trouble was stopped by the high-profile police presence. "It was a very good high profile police operation which prevented more serious trouble." He said there had been various incidents of violence throughout the city, both before and after the match. One man was arrested after an object was thrown through a window at the Golden Lion, and several arrests were made elsewhere for public order offences and criminal damage. He said some of the city's pubs had helped minimise the problem by closing or refusing entry to rowdy groups of supporters. At 5.45pm, The Bootham Tavern closed for the evening, and The Five Lions in Walmgate shut its doors until 7pm to stop any Doncaster fans causing trouble in the pub. Craig Holt, landlord of the Five Lions, said they had still continued to serve the people who were already in the pub, but decided to keep their doors closed until the Doncaster fans had left. Friday 16 May 2003: York soccer violence up by 50 per cent by Evening Press reporter THE Evening Press today uncovers the true cost and misery caused by a shocking rise in football hooliganism in York. Police chiefs revealed that well-orchestrated football-related violence before, during and after York City games had increased by 50 per cent this season. Officers made a total of 42 arrests both inside and outside Bootham Crescent - an increase of 30 per cent. Many more were arrested during away matches. Meanwhile, it cost more than £150,000 to police the trouble - with only £30,000 recouped from the football club. And police predicted today that the problems and costs may get worse next season with the visit of Yorkshire rivals, Huddersfield and Doncaster. City police commander Chief Superintendent John Lacy is this week attending a national police conference in Hampshire to discuss ways of dealing with football-related violence. He said York had seen a dramatic surge in well-organised hooliganism, with mobile phones, pagers and the internet being used to orchestrate the trouble. "We're not prepared to tolerate the disorder," he told the Evening Press. "This is well-organised. It didn't just happen that violence broke out - meeting places were clearly arranged. "The cost of policing it is crazy, but we've got no option. It's an increasing burden on my budget." Incidents this season have included: Seven people being arrested after more than 40 supporters clashed at the Monument, in Station Rise, as Bury fans made their way to York station. Fighting broke out and several missiles were thrown, including pool balls and bottles A man being "glassed" in the head in the Old White Swan pub, in Goodramgate, during an alleged attack on York City fans by three van loads of Shrewsbury supporters. Bottles were thrown and punches exchanged Stewards and police separating Carlisle United and York City fans in Bootham Crescent's Popular Stand. Several seats were ripped out and thrown on to the pitch by some away supporters and a number of punches thrown Police arresting 13 supporters, mainly in the city centre, before and after York City's home match against Hartlepool United. A York City fan, who asked not to be named, was in the Old White Swan when the Shrewsbury supporters allegedly attacked. "This guy had a chunk taken out of his nose with a bottle," she said. "It was just awful. We weren't even playing them." PC Alistair Kennan, the city's football intelligence officer, added: "Hooliganism has come back this year in a big way. Many people think banning fans from grounds is draconian, but if they're involved in trouble they have got to accept the consequences." York City spokesman Sophie McGill said the club would not tolerate hooliganism. 22/03/03 Wrexham-York city Between 300 and 400 York fans with 45 lads: 15 on minibus, three car loads, and 15 on train. Minibus didn't arrive until about 2pm because of transport problems but went into town. Others arrived 1pm and went into Miliners and the Welsh version of Weatherspoons - it's called some Welsh name but it's a Weatherspoons. The only enquiry we got was when York liason police popped into Miliners and later on in Weatherspoons. Do Wrexham have any lads over 17? Wrexham "lads" giving it the big one from their new stand on the side during the game, but nothing outside after, just two tossers making a show by looking at the away fans walking to the station. If this is the so-called Front Line, we stepped over it. Monday 24 February 2003: Seven arrested after rival fans clash again by Matthew Woodcock SEVEN people were arrested when violence flared between rival fans following York City's game with Bury. Police said between 30 and 40 supporters clashed at the Monument, in Station Rise, as Bury fans made their way to York station. Fighting broke out and several missiles were thrown, including pool balls and bottles. Dozens of police officers - including the dog section - fought to bring the situation under control. "It was like the OK Corral," an eyewitness told the Evening Press. "The police looked as though they were struggling to control it because there were so many people fighting." This latest outbreak of football-related violence comes only one week after police made 13 arrests leading up to York City's match against Hartlepool last Saturday. A police spokeswoman said of the seven arrested four were Bury fans and three were York City followers. Several of them have been charged with public order offences while others have been bailed pending further inquiries. Chief Superintendent John Lacy said today that the violence would not be tolerated. "If anybody thought that football hooliganism was declining they need only look at York City in the last couple of matches, where 20 arrests have been made in streets outside the ground. "We've seen an emergence of organised violence outside the ground. Clearly, fans have been determined to fight in our streets. "It's unbelievable that York City supporters are prepared to organise violence when the club is on its uppers. "We will be seeking more banning orders." Violence also erupted on Saturday night in a number of pubs in Micklegate following the initial disturbance. Sergeant John Suchomski said: "Police officers were engaged in keeping rival groups apart."

07 June 2003 Violence fear at soccer curtain-raisers POLICE fear clashes bet-ween travelling football fans if FOUR matches are allowed to go ahead on the same day in the South Yorkshire area. Supporters from New-castle, Middlesbrough and Leeds will all descend on the region if the friendly matches are played as planned on August 2. Hundreds of officers would be needed to maintain security at the games and in the city centre and officers say resources will be 'severely stretched' if at least one of the games is not postponed. Police have have appealed to Sheffield Wednesday to change the date of their game with Newcastle United, but Owls officials say they are committed to that date and cannot change. United face Middlesbor-ough at Bramall Lane in Simon Tracey's testimonial game and Leeds play at Chesterfield - all games kicking off at 3pm. Rotherham entertain Doncaster at 6.30pm. The onus is on Wednesday to change their fixture because United told police of the Middlesbrough game first - back in April - and so take priority. It is believed Newcastle's pre-season commitments mean the club would not be available for any re-arranged fixture. Police football liaison officer Chief Insp Alan Shep-herd says the games will stretch policing capabilities to the limit if they are played simultaneously. "Wednesday are reviewing the issue based on the information we have given them," he said. "We have two teams from the North East and Leeds fans going through to Chesterfield. "It would put a massive strain on our resources." A Wednesday spokesman said: "We are aware of police concerns and we are in discussions with them." England v Turkey Thursday 03 April 2003: Bradford 15 held at Turkey clash Fifteen football fans from Bradford were arrested by police as the Euro 2004 qualifier between England and Turkey was marred by violence. A spokesman for Northumbria police, which had around 1,000 officers on duty to cope with the crowd, said the arrests were mainly for drink and disorderly offences. By the end of the match at The Stadium of Light in Sunderland police had arrested 95 people. Superintendent Jim Campbell, in charge of security at the 48,000 sell-out match, said a group of more than 25 supporters, believed to follow Leeds, were arrested in the afternoon. Supt Campbell said: "The number of arrests would indicate there were major problems but approximately 60 resulted from two incidents, both fairly early on. "It would appear there was no-one from the Turkish community arrested or injured and the problems we had around the ground were English fans having a go at each other." As kick-off approached, dozens of riot police clashed with hundreds of football supporters on the approach to the stadium. Hooligans pelted riot police and uniformed officers with bottles and a full-scale charge was launched by baton-wielding police. story 2 England fans could face an away travel ban following crowd trouble at the Euro 2004 qualifier against Turkey in Sunderland. The Football Association (FA) says it is considering the ban for the return game in Istanbul, while Uefa bosses say they are investigating pitch invasions after England's two winning goals. Despite the inquiry, police praised the vast majority of English supporters and blamed hardcore hooligans for the bulk of the disorder. More than 100 people were arrested during trouble inside and outside the Stadium of Light, in Sunderland, which attracted a full house of almost 49,000 supporters. The hardcore element of football hooligans intent on causing havoc were blamed for scenes which marred the victory. Superintendent Jim Campbell, of Northumbria Police, said the sooner hooligans were weeded out of football, the better it would be for the game's image. What we need to do is identify and ostracise this minority intent on causing problems Superintendent Jim Campbell, Northumbria Police A total of 106 people were arrested throughout Wednesday, with almost half from two particular incidents in which police targeted potential troublemakers and moved in before any violence erupted. The arrested fans were from across the country, with almost half from Yorkshire and 29 from Leeds itself. It had been feared before the game that Leeds United supporters would use the Euro 2004 qualifier to seek "revenge" for the murder of two Leeds fans in Istanbul three years ago. Others arrested came from areas including London, Cumbria, West Midlands, Middlesex and Kent, with 15 from Sunderland and a small number from Newcastle. Mr Campbell said: "The vast majority of English fans were there to enjoy the game. Arrests may rise "What we need to do is identify and ostracise this minority intent on causing problems. "It is likely that a significant number of those arrested will be known football hooligans. "We will now have an intelligence debrief and the information we get from that can be used to aid policing of future internationals." He warned the arrest figure could rise after video footage was studied of an incident in which England fans attempted to ambush coaches carrying Turkish supporters. Of the arrests, more than 60 were arrested for public order offences, and others for being drunk and disorderly, using threatening behaviour and a handful for affray and violent conduct. 'Cause more problems' England ran out 2-0 winners with goals from Darius Vassell and captain David Beckham, but on both occasions fans swarmed on to the pitch to celebrate. Uefa spokesman Mike Lee said: "We are still awaiting the report of the match delegate but a disciplinary investigation will now be opened." FA chief executive David Davies said: "There is an argument not to allow England fans to travel. "England are the world champions of fans travelling without tickets and that could cause more problems. "I can understand not sending any supporters at all. If it is the right decision we will take it but we will not make any decision until June." Story 3 Hundreds of fans clashed with police in Sunderland before Wednesday night's Euro 2004 qualifier against Turkey as officers were pelted with missiles. At least 50 of the arrests were preventive when known hooligans were detained to prevent disturbances. Superintendent Jim Campbell said he hoped England's 2-0 win on the pitch would be remembered more than the hooliganism off it. The officer told BBC Breakfast: "We had quite a bit of information that there was going to be quite a large hooligan element. "We planned extensively because of that and those plans worked relatively well. Hooligans isolated "We did what was really a pre-emptive strike. We acted positively, we acted robustly and those people were taken out of circulation." Mr Campbell said police managed to isolate many hooligans who had descended on Wearside intent on fighting. He said: "We did that successfully and we achieved our goal." There had been fears that Leeds United fans would use the match to gain revenge for the death of two supporters in Istanbul in 2000. None of the 5,000 Turkish fans who travelled to the game were arrested. Coaches carrying Turkish fans to the game were attacked by English hooligans and mounted police officers had to keep them at bay. Riot police About 25 fans from Sunderland and Newcastle were arrested in a local pub before the sell-out match as officers believed they were about to attack each other. More than 25 supporters believed to be associated with Leeds United were later arrested in the Fawcett Street area of the city centre. As kick-off approached, dozens of riot police clashed with hundreds of supporters on the approach to the stadium. The violent skirmishes followed numerous incidents on the Wearmouth Bridge. Police dog handlers were involved in the incident in the Roker Avenue area and a police helicopter hovered overhead. Near the stadium one fan was knocked to the floor and hit his head against the pavement, and was treated by paramedics before being taken away in an ambulance. 8th june 2002 Regional chaos after England victory 45 held in match violence by Rosslyn Brennan POLICE today condemned yobs who marred England's World Cup joy by bringing violence to the streets of York. Forty five people were arrested for public order offences in the city in the hours that followed the historic 1-0 victory over Argentina, and police officers had to be drafted in from other areas of the city to cope with the "pockets of disruption". Many football fans had indulged in a 12-hour drinking session before, during and after the World Cup group showdown in Sapporo, Japan, which was screened in pubs throughout the city. The number arrested was too great to be accommodated in police cells in York. Inspector Andy Everitt, of York Police, condemned the actions of the fans and said they had let themselves down. He said that door staff, licensees and the police worked together to prevent potentially volatile situations getting out of hand. "There were lots of violent incidents last night in the city centre in particular. "Between 7pm and 7am 45 people were arrested. "It was a combination of too much alcohol and over exuberance. "I do feel that a lot of people who were arrested and involved in public order incidents have let themselves down. "Towards the end of the game there were large groups of youths shouting and chanting and lots of violence breaking out," he said. Inspector Everitt said he was not expecting a similar level of disorder for England's next game against Nigeria on Wednesday, which has a 7.30am kick-off. Incidents began as early as 4.30pm yesterday, just two hours after the full time whistle, when officers were called to Lendal after reports of a group of up to 30 men fighting outside the Varsity bar. The group was dispersed quickly and no arrests were made at that time. Those arrested were taken to York Police Station but many were then transferred to Selby. Drunken yobs also caused chaos on the streets of Hull and Grimsby. Bottles and coins were thrown at police during 90 minutes of chaos, a spokesman said. Between eight and 10 people were arrested for public order offences and Beverley Road in Hull had to be closed as a crowd of more than 500 spilled out of pubs in the area. Officers were drafted in from surrounding areas to help contain the situation. Insp Steve Page of Humberside Police said: "The public ignored police warnings to control themselves and drunken yobs caused difficulties in both Hull and Grimsby."