Appeal for witnesses after flares injure football player and child at Bury AFC v North Shields match

At around 1pm today (Saturday 3 September), Greater Manchester Police responded to an incident that occurred during the Bury AFC v North Shields football match.

We received reports that a group of male protestors outside were throwing flares inside the stadium, which caused minor injuries to a player and a child spectator.

There is a heavy police presence in the area and enquiries are ongoing to identify the males involved.

Officers are keen to reassure the community that this is an isolated incident and is not connected to the reports of fireworks being used in an anti-social manner elsewhere in Bury.

Chief Inspector Samantha Goldie of Greater Manchester Police Bury Division said: "Whilst we anticipate protests taking place and facilitate them where possible, we absolutely do not tolerate violence.

"This is a public event and ultimately we want everyone to be safe and have an enjoyable time. Thankfully this reckless and dangerous action by a few did not result in serious injury.

"We are keen to speak to anyone who might have more information that could help identify those involved. If you witnessed this incident, or have footage, please share it with us as soon as possible."

You can contact police on 0161 856 8181 quoting incident number 1415 of 03/09/22. Alternatively, you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.