EIGHT men have been charged in connection with violent disorder that occurred in Huddersfield town centre following the Town game against Leeds on Valentine's Day. 

During the afternoon, police officers were called to Cross Church Street, Byram Street, John William Street and Westgate to deal with a number of incidents where groups were dispersed from the area.

Investigations using CCTV footage led to the arrests of the men who have now been charged and bailed to appear at Huddersfield Magistrates' Court on June 5.

Last week police released CCTV images of four other men wanted in connection with the disorder. Police are still looking to speak to these people.



Kirklees Detective Chief Inspector Dave Knopwood is sending out a firm message:

"We simply will not tolerate violence before, during or after football matches and this demonstrates the lengths we are prepared to go to stamp it out.

"The people who do involve themselves in such offences are not fans of the game and do not represent the thousands of law abiding people who regularly attend the matches in Huddersfield.

"The police work closely with the Huddersfield Town Football Club to ensure that we are able to cut out any elements of disorder and deal robustly with anyone committing such offences.

"Huddersfield has a lively and vibrant centre and we will not let the minority ruin other people's enjoyment of what is a popular Town."

Nigel Clibbens Chief Executive of HTAFC and John Robinson, KSDL's Safety Officer provided a joint statement:

"The Club and KSDL have co-operated with West Yorkshire Police throughout their investigations following the disorder which occurred in Huddersfield Town Centre after the Leeds United game on Saturday 14 February.



"Huddersfield Town is proud to be a family orientated club and together we are striving to repeat their 2008 success in achieving the Family Club of the Year Award. The Club has recently won a Family Excellence Award for 2008/9 and we all want to keep up our efforts to be successful in attracting families to the stadium.

"People who see football as an opportunity to cause disorder and participate in violent conduct have no place at the Galpharm Stadium and are not seen as the true supporters they often purport to be. They are certainly not welcome here".