Small number of fans 'a disgrace'

Mark Hay's company sustained thousands of pounds of damage

A catering company owner who provided refreshments for fans attending the Uefa Cup final in Manchester said some fans were a disgrace.

Mark Hay said he was "angry" at what he believed was the lack of policing in the Piccadilly fans zone where he was providing food and drink.

He explained that when the big screen, erected for supporters to see the Rangers vs Zenit St Petersburg game, failed trouble was sparked.

"I was under threat," he said.

"My wife was under threat, my staff were under threat. We made a 999 call at 7.15pm last night and I've still not seen a policeman," added Mr Hay.

He claimed there had been a lack of policing, with no officers or security staff on duty after 1900 BST, leaving him and his staff to deal with approximately 21,000 people.

Mr Hay said his company alone had sustained roughly �10,000 worth of damage.

Rangers lost the final 2-0 to the Russian side at the City of Manchester stadium.

BBC reporter, Phil Goodlad, said the aftermath of Wednesday night's game had left the Piccadilly Gardens area smelling "putrid" and looking like an "absolute bomb-site." with broken bottles, glasses and cans.

Mr Hay said the behaviour of a small number of fans had been a "disgrace."

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