Officer hurt in Villa Park violence returns to work

Violent clashes took place outside Villa Park in Birmingham

A police officer who was injured during violent scenes at Villa Park has spoken for the first time.

PC Andrew Forbes spent two days in hospital after a flare was thrown and became lodged in his clothing before a European fixture with Legia Warsaw.

He returned to work this week after being treated for minor burns and smoke inhalation.

The West Mercia officer was among a number injured during clashes, over which 46 people have been charged.

Mr Forbes, 43, has 20 years’ service in the police force and was described by fellow officers as experienced in dealing with large crowds at football matches.

He expressed gratitude for the public's support after the events ahead of the match in Birmingham against the Polish side.

"I have an overwhelming relief that I didn’t receive any injuries that will be everlasting," he said.

The officer's clothing was left damaged after he was struck by a flare

Five officers suffered minor injuries including a concussion and hand wounds.

Two police dogs and two police horses were also hurt.

A total of 45 men and one woman, aged between 21 and 63, have been charged over the violence.

About 40 of them are from Poland while a small number are UK residents, West Midlands Police said.

Two police horses were injured during the disorder

Assistant Chief Constable Damian Barratt, of West Midlands Police, said officers had put themselves in harm’s way to prevent the public being injured.

“The support they have received from across the country and the footballing world has been fantastic to see," he said.

“Our investigation into the appalling events of that night continues and we’ll be continuing to gather evidence as work to review many hundreds of hours of footage continues over the coming weeks."

Following an appearance at Birmingham Magistrates' Court on Saturday, 44 men and one woman were granted bail and will next appear at Birmingham Crown Court on 5 January.

One man has yet to appear before magistrates.