Anti-racism protests greet Bowyer's debut

Scuffles broke out yesterday before Lee Bowyer's controversial debut for West Ham United as anti-racists clashed with other football fans. Amid angry scenes, demonstrators unfurled a banner, in front of the Bobby Moore gates outside Upton Park, which read: "West Ham Fans United Against Racism".

An angry crowd gathered and police struggled to prevent it spilling into the nearby streets.

The demonstration was hastily arranged this week after Bowyer signed for the club, which is situated in the London borough of Newham with its large Asian and black communities.

The 26-year-old has a highly volatile past, both on and off the field, and was involved in a high-profile trial last year after he was accused of attacking an Asian student. Although he was acquitted – it is three years today since it happened – he faced accusations over his behaviour.

Graham Bash, a West Ham fan for 45 years, organised the demonstration against Bowyer. He said of the player's debut: "What is happening today makes me very sad. Signing Lee Bowyer has done enormous damage to the relationship between the club and the local community."

Bowyer, who has denied any accusation of being a racist, is a West Ham fan himself and was raised in nearby Poplar.

Hammers fans appeared to back Bowyer yesterday. Many chanted his name during the protest and tore down the banner.