Fans quizzed over Turf Moor trouble

As many as 40 football fans were being questioned today following a match between two bitter rivals.

The East Lancashire derby between Burnley and Blackburn at Turf Moor yesterday resulted in the arrests, made up of both sets of fans.

Supt Terry Woods from Lancashire Police said last night: "A major policing operation has been in place throughout the day to prevent any disorder.

"Unfortunately we have had to deal with some disorder inside and outside the ground. However, the operation that is in place has enabled us to successfully deal with those pockets of disorder rapidly."

He said police used an intelligence database as part of the operation to make a number of pro-active arrests as a preventative measure against further disorder within specific groups.

"I would like to point out that the vast majority of fans have behaved appropriately," he added.

"Unfortunately, a minority have chosen not to behave in the same way which has led to a number of arrests.

"The safety of the majority of spectators there to enjoy the game was paramount and I am conscious that in order to achieve this, people leaving the ground have had to take alternative routes home.

"I would like to thank those fans who have been patient, especially around travel arrangements and changing their route home."

The Football Association have started the process of looking into the disorder that broke out.

They are contacting the clubs, match officials and police before deciding what action to take if any.

There have been suggestions that coins were thrown at referee Mike Dean as well as Blackburn players David Dunn and Chris Samba.

An FA spokesman said: "We are aware of the events of yesterday and will be contacting the clubs, match officials and police for their views."