Four arrested during East Lancashire Derby

Saturday, August 31, 2024

Now another fiercely competitive East Lancashire Derby has come to an end, we just wanted to take this opportunity to thanks those fans who enjoyed the match in a respectful manner.

Sadly, however a some individuals let themselves, their clubs and their families down.

Four people were arrested inside Turf Moor and remain in custody at this time. They were:

• A 35-year-old man from Accrington and a 14-year-old boy from Blackburn who were arrested on suspicion of Football (Sporting Grounds) Offences. This related to the release of pyrotechnics.
• A 55-year-old man from Whalley who was arrested on suspicion of Racially or Religiously Intentional Aggravated Harassment.
• A 20-year-old man from Nottingham who was arrested on suspicion of Religiously/Racially Aggravated Public Disorder.

We are aware of other offences committed inside and outside of the stadium. We will be reviewing evidence, including all footage available, and working with both clubs to identify those involved. They should expect to be arrested and/or receive Football Banning Orders.

We will maintain an enhanced police presence throughout East Lancashire for the remainder of the day and night.

Supt Melita Worswick, who was Gold Command for the fixture, said: “I would like to thank the vast majority of supporters for their mostly exemplary behaviour during this fiercely contested derby fixture.

“Unfortunately, a handful of mindless individuals have engaged in extremely disappointing and offensive behaviour. There is no place in Lancashire for hate of any kind. Anyone who engages in such behaviour should expect to be dealt with robustly.

“I would also like to thank our officers and colleagues from partner agencies who have worked extremely hard to ensure the fixture passed off without too much incident.”