POLICE have appealed for witnesses amid reports of racial abuse and vandalism by a group of Darlington FC fans.

West Midlands Police confirmed this morning that they were investigating reports that Darlington fans caused damage at a pub in Rushall on Saturday.

Police are also investigating claims that racist comments were made to Rushall Olympic FC players by Darlington FC fans during the game.

A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: "Police are investigating reports of criminal damage allegedly committed by football supporters at The Boathouse pub on Park Road, Rushall on Saturday afternoon.     "Officers are also following-up reports of racist comments made to Rushall Olympic FC players by Darlington FC supporters during Saturday’s game at the Dales Lane ground.

"No arrests have been made and enquiries are currently on-going."

Following the game, Darlington fans took to online forums to criticise at least one drunken fan who allegedly made racist gestures towards Rushall’s players during the match and was escorted from the ground by officers.

The incidents are a sour note in a week of celebrations for newly-promoted Darlington, and the club’s director John Tempest said in a statement that he wanted to make clear that Darlington FC abhors violence and inappropriate behaviour from its fans.

He added: “Darlington Football Club is adamant that it will not tolerate any acts of disorder from anyone purporting to support the cub, or allow them to tarnish the good name of the club and the vast majority of its excellent supporters.

“The alleged trouble was largely alcohol-fuelled and as we move into National League North, both alcohol bans on all bus/coaches travelling to away games as well as Football Banning orders will apply.

“The club has already made contact with the police and is aware that they are carrying out a full investigation.

“The club will await feedback from the Police before deciding on any next steps.”

Anyone with information about the incidents should contact West Midlands Police on 101.

Alternatively they can contact the club by email on john.tempest@darlingtonfc.org