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Police launch criminal investigation following disorder at Altrincham FC

It follows Saturday's postponed game against Morecambe.

Pic: Jonathan Moore

Greater Manchester Police have opened a criminal investigation following reports of disorder outside Altrincham FC's ground after Saturday's late postponement against Morecambe.

The National League club confirmed it met with police today following incidents involving what it described as "a small minority of supporters" in the area around the J. Davidson Stadium.

Saturday's fixture was called off just 15 minutes before kick-off after the referee deemed the pitch unplayable, despite players from both sides having already completed their warm-ups.

The late decision left hundreds of fans who had travelled to Moss Lane frustrated, with Morecambe supporters having made the journey from Lancashire only to see the match abandoned.

In a statement, Altrincham FC said any individuals identified as having committed offences could face criminal charges.

The club also warned it would impose immediate bans from home fixtures and official away travel for anyone found to have been involved.

"The Club has a zero-tolerance approach to this level of anti-social behaviour," the statement read.

Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward. Reports can be made to PC John Coburn at john.coburn@gmp.police.uk or to the club directly at hello@altyfc.com.

The postponement came despite extensive efforts to ensure the match went ahead, with heat lamps deployed to treat a frozen area of the pitch identified during morning inspections.

A rearranged date for the fixture has yet to be announced.

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