Teen arrested after boy, 10, hit by flare at St Johnstone v Dundee match

Blue smoke was seen coming from among the Dundee fans in the away section of McDiarmid Park

A 15-year-old boy has been arrested after a child was understood to have been hit by a flare thrown at St Johnstone football club.

The 10-year-old victim was treated for a facial injury by paramedics during a match at McDiarmid Park in Perth.

The incident happened during the Scottish Premiership match on Saturday which Dundee FC went on to win 2-1.

Police said a further four people aged 13, 15, and two aged 17, were arrested over pyrotechnics at the game.

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Photographs from the match showed blue smoke coming from the away section of McDiarmid Park.

St Johnstone FC said it was aware of an incident involving a young Dundee fan.

A spokesperson said: "The club is extremely saddened and concerned to learn of the events and wishes the young supporter a speedy recovery.

"We are working with Dundee FC and the authorities to identify those involved in the away section.

"Supporters are reminded the use of pyrotechnics is illegal within Scottish football grounds."

Pyrotechnics were lit at Dens Park, the home of Dundee FC, during a match in November

Dundee FC said action would be taken against any individuals who brought pyrotechnics into football stadiums.

A spokesperson said: "This is an example of the very real dangers associated with pyrotechnics generally and within football stadia.

"The club have been in touch directly with the family of the young supporter to check on his condition and will be arranging something special for him with the players and coaches.

"Everyone at Dundee Football Club wishes him a speedy recovery and looks forward to seeing him soon."

In June, new legislation made it a criminal offence to possess fireworks and flares at football grounds.

The law was introduced after May's Scottish Cup semi-final between Celtic and Rangers was delayed because of smoke inside Hampden.

Celtic were fined around £20,000 after supporters lit fireworks before the Champions League group opener against Feyenoord in Rotterdam.

And in November, a match between Dundee and Rangers had to be paused for 18 minutes after away fans let off flares in the stands.

The issue has become more prevalent in Scottish football in recent years with the rise of so called 'ultras' groups.