A police officer involved in violent street clashes has been sacked by his force.

The unnamed constable was found guilty of abuse of authority at a disciplinary hearing.

The allegations date back to September 1999 when officers from the Operational Support Group of Merseyside Police were accused of using heavy-handed tactics after trouble flared in Liverpool city centre.

An investigation was ordered by Chief Constable Norman Bettison into the violence which followed Liverpool FC's 3-2 home defeat by Manchester United.

Resignation 'required'

Police moved in to clear the area after bottles were thrown although the clashes that ensued did not involve rival fans.

The constable, who is understood to have used his baton on members of the public was "required to resign".

He is the only police officer to lose his job so far.

During last week's hearing a second constable, who was found guilty of "abuse of authority" and an allegation of "making a false statement", was given a financial penalty.

A force spokeswoman said: "Both constables were found guilty of abuse of authority relating to the events of 11 September 1999.

"One of the officers was also found guilty of making a false statement.

"One officer was required to resign and the second received a financial penalty. Both have 14 days to appeal.

"The force expects the highest standards of integrity and professionalism from all officers and staff."

Officers interviewed

An inquiry team, headed by Superintendent Mike Langdon, took a total of 550 statements from police officers and a further 701 were provided by members of the public.

This resulted in 59 officers of differing ranks being interviewed.

The Crown Prosecution Service concluded there was insufficient evidence to pursue the cases.

The independent Police Complaints Authority ruled there was evidence against eight officers which resulted in seven being charged with disciplinary offences.

A hearing into the case of a final officer, also accused of abuse of authority, is expected to take place later this month.