Police officer among 17 injured by flares

The air turned red as Liverpool fans celebrated the Premier League title

A police officer is among 17 people who were injured in incidents involving flares during celebrations ahead of Liverpool's final-game title celebrations.

The Reds lifted the Premier League trophy at Anfield in front of jubilant fans after drawing 1-1 with FA Cup winners Crystal Palace on Sunday.

The injuries have prompted a warning from Merseyside Police as hundreds of thousands of fans were expected to descend on the city for the team's open-top bus parade.

Ch Insp Chris Barnes said they want people to enjoy the party atmosphere but urged fans not to use flares.

The force said a quantity of flares were seized and also four drones that were being flown above Anfield in breach of a temporary air restrictions in place over the ground.

He said: "We want everyone who attends today's victory parade to have a safe and enjoyable time. Nobody should have to suffer an injury as a result of the reckless actions of another individual.

"We know that people want to enjoy the party atmosphere in the city but it is important that we think of everyone's safety and wellbeing.

"The parade will have its own professionally organised special effects, including confetti canons and fireworks, which will be adding to the fantastic atmosphere in a safe and controlled manner and my urge would be for people to leave it to the professionals."