Police warn football fans after seven arrests at Barrow match
Offences included Class A drug possession, common assault and possession of flares
Football supporters in Cumbria are being urged to behave responsibly after a series of arrests at the start of the new season.
Seven people were detained on Saturday, 30 August, before, during and after Barrow’s League Two clash with Fleetwood Town at the SO Legal Stadium.
Offences included Class A drug possession, common assault and possession of flares.
Superintendent Matt Pearman from Cumbria Police said while most fans enjoy matches without issue, “a minority of people view a football match as an opportunity to engage in criminal activity. Their behaviour, which places the safety of other supporters at risk, will not be tolerated.”
The force says it will continue to work with clubs and other police forces to identify and deal with those causing trouble, including seeking football banning orders.
Four people have already been charged following earlier arrests on 16 August in Barrow.
They include:
- Peter Fones, 48, of Lesh Lane, Barrow – charged with using threatening or abusive words or behaviour. Due in court on 15 October
- Lee Heffron, 43, of Hatfield Avenue, Fleetwood – charged with the same offence. Due in court on 13 October
- Matthew Smith, 21, of Willow Grove, Hambleton, Poulton-le-Fylde – charged with possession of a flare at a sporting event. Due in court on 13 October
- A 17-year-old boy from Barrow – charged with possession of Class A drugs. Due at Barrow Youth Court on 1 October
Three further arrests from Saturday’s match remain under investigation, with suspects aged between 15 and 17 released on bail while enquiries continue.
Police say they want fans of all ages to enjoy games safely and stress that anyone who puts others at risk will face action.