Police probe Tees-Wear FA Cup train disorder (From The Northern Echo)

Police probe Tees-Wear FA Cup train disorder

9:50am Thursday 9th February 2012 in Tyne and Wear News By Matt Westcott

SUPPORTERS travelling to last night's Tees-Wear FA Cup derby clash are being blamed for badly damaging a train.

Police are also investigating claims to members of rail staff were assaulted as the train headed for Middlesbrough from Sunderland.

“BTP officers are appealing for information after a train was badly damaged by football fans in Hartlepool last night," said a spokeswoman for the British Transport Police.

“Prior to the football fixture between Middlesbrough and Sunderland, a large number of fans boarded the 17.50 Sunderland to Middlesbrough to service at Sunderland.

“During the journey a disorder broke out amongst a small group of the 450 fans travelling on the service. A window on the train was kicked out, lights were ripped out and seats badly damaged.

“For safety reasons the train has to be taken out of service at Hartlepool and the fans were detrained on the platform.

“We are also investigating reports that two members of rail staff were also assaulted during the incident.

“Disorder or antisocial behaviour of any kind, on the rail network is unacceptable and there are many others travelling who should not have to be subjected to this.

"We will not tolerate incidents such as this by so called football fans - passengers and rail staff have the right to travel and work without being subjected to the type of behaviour shown during this incident." “ Police have launched an investigation and will be studying CCTV and speaking to witnesses.

The train that was damaged remains out of service and is being forensically examined for evidence.

"I would appeal to anyone who may have any information, or who may have filmed or taken photos of the damage and disorder to contact Police,” said the spokeswoman.

Anyone with information is asked to call British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference 162 of 08/02/2012. Or call the independent charity, Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.