Arrests over disorder at Darlington v Newcastle friendly

POLICE have arrested four people suspected of being involved in disorder at Darlington's Northern Echo Arena during a pre-season friendly against Newcastle last month. The four are believed to have been among supporters who invaded the pitch and brawled during the game on July 15. A joint operation between Durham and Northumbria police forces was set up to try and identify those involved in the disorder. Three men, two aged 20 and one aged 23, and a 17-year-old male youth were arrested at addresses in North Shields, Gateshead and South Shields last night and today. They were arrested for offences including provocation of violence and going into the playing area and are currently being questioned by police. Northumbria Police Chief Superintendent Steve Neill said: We will continue to come down hard on the small minority who ruin things for the real football fans who just want to enjoy the game. These arrests should send out a clear message to anyone thinking of getting involved in violence or disorder at today's derby that they should stay at home. Even if we don't arrest you on the day, you can rest assured that you will be on our radar and we will catch up with you. Anyone intent on causing trouble faces arrest, prosecution and being banned from future matches.

Source: Northern_Echo