Fan arrested for assault at football game

A fan was arrested after allegedly attacking a club official and shouting abusive language during a non-league football game.

On Saturday an Ipswich Wanderers' fan was asked to leave the Mulbarton Wanderers' ground at Mulberry Park, near Norwich, following "abusive language" and damage to the property, the clubs said in a joint statement.

The fan reportedly attacked a Mulbarton official who needed medical treatment, the clubs added.

Norfolk Police said an 18-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assault and criminal damage and and was given a conditional caution for assault with no further action for the charge of criminal damage.

The clubs said they were "appalled at the actions and behaviour of a minority of Ipswich Wanderers' supporters before and during the match".

"We do not and will not tolerate abusive language, physical violence or other anti-social behaviours at our football clubs. We strongly condemn the actions of those that do," the joint statement added.

Norfolk Police said it received reports of a verbal altercation between two men that resulted in one being assaulted, causing a fall into some signage.

A spokesperson for the East of England Ambulance Service said a man was assessed at the ground and discharged on scene.

The teams, who play in the Thurlow Nunn (Eastern Counties) League, thanked their fans, volunteers and staff who helped during the incident.

"Together, let us protect the integrity of our clubs, the league and the beauty that is non-league football and ensure that abuse and violence has no place in out game," the teams said.

The Football Association (FA) has been notified, the clubs said.

Norfolk FA said it is supporting Mulbarton Wanderers as it works with Norfolk Police and Suffolk FA.

A spokesperson added: "We remain committed to ensuring a safe and respectful environment for everyone involved in grassroots football."

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