Statement following Port Vale v Swindon Town game

Officers are working with Port Vale Football Club and Swindon Town Football Club to investigate an assault that took place following the fixture at Vale Park on Thursday 19 May.

Police attended Hamil Road, Burslem, where a Swindon Town player was reportedly assaulted following a pitch incursion after the conclusion of the game. 

Officers are working in partnership with both football clubs to identify those responsible.

Superintendent Gemma Ward, Head of Force Operations, said: “Staffordshire Police and Port Vale are committed to ensuring that events at Vale Park are safe and enjoyable for everyone in attendance.

“Anyone seeking to ruin this will be firmly dealt with – such actions have no place in our local community. A thorough investigation is now underway.”

A spokesman for Port Vale FC confirmed that the club will not tolerate such irresponsible behaviour and remains committed to taking the strongest possible action against anyone found guilty of being involved in criminal activities – including barring individuals from future games.

Anyone who witnessed the assault who may have relevant photographs and video footage is asked to contact Staffordshire Police on Facebook, Twitter, or call 101, quoting incident number 213 of 16 May.