Oxford v Swndon crowd trouble sees five arrested by police

Thames Valley Police have arrested five men in connection with crowd trouble linked with Oxford United's match against local rivals Swindon Town on Tuesday night.

A number of supporters of both clubs were seen clashing with police and each other outside Oxford's Kassam Stadium before the Johnstone's Paint Trophy game which the hosts won 2-0.

But four of the arrests have been made in relation to an incident which occurred earlier on Botley Road in the city centre, while a further male from Oldham was arrested in nearby Didcot for being drunk and disorderly.

A 41-year-old man from Swindon was arrested on suspicion of affray and a 42-year-old man from Swindon was arrested on suspicion of affray and possession of a Class A drug, both of whom have been bailed until November 9.

A third 47-year-old man from Swindon was arrested on suspicion of affray, while a 45-year-old man from Calne in Wiltshire was arrested on suspicion of violent disorder. Both have been bailed until November 3.

Local Police Area Commander for Oxford, Christian Bunt, said: "Thames Valley Police had a policing operation in place, yesterday throughout the afternoon and evening in Oxford, to manage the large number of football supporters for the Oxford v Swindon fixture.

"This is a local derby and we have historically had alcohol related crime and disorder problems associated with this. We worked closely with the football club to ensure the safety of all people attending the event and going about their daily lives in the city. 

"Unfortunately, a small minority of supporters were intent on causing problems which resulted in disorder in Botley Road, near to the train station, and four men from the Swindon area were arrested for public order offences.

"In addition a large number of people were also prevented from attending the match, due to their behaviour, and were escorted from the City."