A POLICE chief has thanked fans of Middlesbrough FC for reporting racist language at the team's away clash with Birmingham last week.

Fans were so upset by the behaviour of one of their own supporters they alerted match officials.

Chief Superintendent Steve Graham, of West Midlands Police, was the match commander on Friday and thanked Boro fans who reported the supporter said to be using racist language.

He said during the second half, a number of Boro supporters complained to stewards and police.

A 40-year-old man was arrested and charged with a racially-aggravated Section 5 public order offence and will appear at Birmingham Magistrates court later this month.

Chief Supt Graham said: "This is awful behaviour and, without the cooperation of fans, is difficult to pick up. I am therefore delighted that so many people came forward to do the right thing.

"Can I thank those who reported the matter to us and take this opportunity to wish you all the best for however long remains in your season.”

He said there had been a few incidents with pyrotechnics after a Middlesbrough supporter threw a flare on to the pitch, but said he wanted to highlight the positive action by fans against racism.