Football fans forced to apologise for disorder

Portsmouth FC fans celebrated the team's promotion by invading the Fratton Park pitch

Five football fans have to make an apology after "distressing" disorder broke out at a pub where supporters were celebrating their team's promotion.

Officers were called to O'Neill's pub in Albert Road, Southsea at 23:00 BST on 16 April, following Portsmouth FC's League One title win.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary said they received reports of theft, criminal damage and racial abuse aimed at a staff member.

Following an investigation, five men have been issued community resolutions which include a requirement for an apology.

Officers reviewed CCTV footage from the night and conducted interviews with witnesses. It is believed around 300 people were present.

The force then decided to issue community resolutions to two 23-year-old men, two 26-year-old men and a 31-year-old man.

'Will not be tolerated'

Supt Paul Markham, district commander for Portsmouth, said: "What became clear very quickly was how distressing this incident was for a number of people present, in particular the staff who were working in O'Neill's that night.

"Despite doing their best to appeal to people's better nature, the staff were swiftly met with abuse from some of those present.

"The most concerning of this being a member of staff who was racially abused by someone within the crowd.

"Unfortunately, we have not been able to identify the person responsible for the comments, but this has had a considerable effect on that staff member.

"No one should be met with abuse while at work, or made to feel like their safety is threatened."

Supt Markham said the majority of football fans are there to enjoy the game and celebrate their team's success but "disorder like this will not be tolerated".