Festival goers frustrated after poor weather created challenging conditions for crowds are being urged not to abuse stewards after reports someone spat in the face of a disabled worker.

Organisers of the Northern Kin Festival in County Durham described the behaviour of a minority of people as ‘unacceptable’ after heavy rain made the ground inaccessible for vehicles.

Some were unable to get into the site when the festival started on Friday with long traffic jams in neighbouring villages on the outskirts of Durham.

Read more: Cars stuck in mud, traffic jams and 'horrendous' toilets mar County Durham festival

Pictures show the grounds of Ushaw Historic  House is now very muddy and there have complaints about the toilets and washing facilities.

A statement issued by Northern Kin Festival said: “We are completely aware of the issues and would struggle to convey how sorry we are about the issues.

“However, to the small minority of customers today who have, to name only two of many occasions, spat in the face of one of our disabled workers and physically assaulted a female staff member in their 60s, we would like to explain that irrespective of the circumstances this behaviour will never be acceptable.

“Those staff members are doing nothing except trying to help anyone that they can wherever they can and this behaviour is only undermining the enthusiasm of the team to continue flat out under challenging circumstances.

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“We're doing everything we possibly can, let our staff do so without abuse please.”

Writing on the festival’s social media page, many people have come to the support of the staff.

Sandi Watson said: “I cannot believe the behavior of some people.

“I hope that those people who have behaved so appallingly have been removed from the festival and banned from ever attending.

“They don't deserve to be here. You have all done a great job under difficult circumstances and have been great at getting information out and keeping us updated.

“I hope the staff that were abused are OK. No one should be treated like they were.”

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Cilente Bosman said those responsible should face criminal charges.

She said: “I hope they will be charged for assault and banned from future events.

“There really is no justification for that kind of behaviour.”