Police investigating 'racist behaviour' at East Lancashire Derby
Some fans were also seen ripping out stadium seats at Ewood Park
Police say they're reviewing CCTV and working with both Burnley and Blackburn football clubs to identify those responsible for shouting racist insults during the East Lancashire Derby.
A number of supporters also ripped out stadium seats during yesterday afternoon's match, with police saying all involved can expect banning orders.
Six men were also arrested shortly after full time:
• A 52-year-old man from Darwen who was arrested on suspicion of common assault.
• A 19-year-old man from Burnley and a second individual who was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage.
• An 18-year-old man from Burnley who was arrested on suspicion of Assaulting a Police Officer
• A 53-year-old man from Preston who was arrested on suspicion of Section 5 Pubic Order.
• A 36-year-old man from Darwen was arrested on suspicion of being drunk and disorderly.
Lancashire Police thanked the vast majority of fans for enjoying the match "in a respectful way":
"Now full time has been blown on another East Lancashire Derby, we wanted to thank those fans who enjoyed the match in a respectful way.
"Sadly, however some supporters let themselves, their clubs and their families down by committing criminal acts.
"We are aware of other offences committed inside the stadium including the throwing of objects by both sets of supports, criminal damage in relation to the ripping out of seats and racist behaviour.
"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."
Supt Derry Crorken, who was Silver Commander for the fixture, said:
“Today saw a significant policing operation to ensure the latest chapter of the East Lancashire Derby passed off safely.
“I would like to thank the vast majority of supporters for supporting their team the correct way during what was a fiercely contested match.
“Unfortunately, a handful of mindless individuals engaged in criminal acts. Some of those individuals have been arrested and are currently in custody. We will thoroughly review the evidence gathered so far and look to make further arrests going forward.”