Oxford United's flares warning after girl hit at Charlton Athletic

  • Published
The Kassam StadiumImage source, Getty Images
Image caption,

Two of the three fans arrested for using flares at Oxford United games this season have been at the Kassam Stadium

A football club has reminded fans that flares are not allowed at matches after a girl was struck by one and a person was arrested on Saturday.

Oxford United said three fans have been arrested for using flares at their games in less than three months.

It said each of them faced a lengthy ban and a criminal record.

The club said pictures from CCTV, along with social media, fans' cameras and TV images, mean those responsible are "almost always" identified.

Thames Valley Police (TVP) said a 20-year-old man from Kent was arrested on suspicion of possessing a flare at the U's Carabao Cup tie against Crystal Palace at the Kassam Stadium on 23 August.

He has been reported for summons for consideration by the court.

Image source, Getty Images
Image caption,

Oxford United said the first arrest was made during the club's match against Crystal Palace on 23 August

A 15-year-old boy from Buckingham was arrested in the stadium's away section on 17 September as Oxford hosted MK Dons.

He has been released under investigation, TVP said.

It said another person was arrested at Charlton's The Valley ground after the girl was struck.

The girl and her family will be the club's guests at its home match against Wycombe Wanderers on Saturday.

"We thank fans who have tried their best to help the club eliminate this problem and we will work with all relevant parties to stamp it out, given that the club also face sanctions which range from hefty fines to reduced capacities at games," the club said.

The Metropolitan Police have been approached to comment.

Related topics

Related internet links

The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites.