FOOTBALL fans clashed with police in Nailsworth on Saturday afternoon, prior to the El Glosico game between Forest Green Rovers and Cheltenham Town Football Club.
Nailsworth residents were shocked by the scenes which unfolded outside the Britannia Inn at just after 1pm, one witness told the SNJ that they had "never seen anything on that scale in Nailsworth".
“There were about 40 fans who had cornered police officers,” one resident said. “There were flares being fired.”
A police spokesperson confirmed that officers had responded to several incidents involving fans before and during the Forest Green Rovers match with Cheltenham on Saturday.
“Around 30-50 Cheltenham fans and a small group of Forest Green fans were involved in fighting before the match," they said.
“Additionally, several Cheltenham fans set off flares in Nailsworth during disorder before the match and at the ground before kick-off."
Police surrounded one group of fans towards the end of the local derby
Extra officers were called in to manage the situation and help maintain safety.
Just before the match ended at least a dozen police officers surrounded fans in the stands and appeared to hold them there while other attendees left the stadium.
Police dogs and their handlers were also on hand outside the Forest Green New Lawn ground during the game.
Investigators are currently collecting evidence of offences and collating the identities of all those involved in order that arrests and football banning orders can be proceeded with as appropriate.
Anyone with CCTV or phone footage should contact 101 quote 173 of October 20.
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