Four arrests and police officer injured as Leeds United fans celebrated with open top bus

Fans gathered outside the East Stand to celebrate on Wednesday, July 23 as Leeds lifted the Championship trophy to an empty stadium.

Football matches have been held without crowds since the league restarted in June, due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Marcelo Bielsa's men earned a 4-0 victory over Charlton Athletic as the Addicks were relegated to League One.

Officials at Leeds United had advised people to stay away from the ground and celebrate at home.

However, the club organised an open top bus outside of the ground with the Whites squad taking to it post-match to celebrate with supporters.

They have since released a statement explaining that a "a brief appearance from the players" would help to "signal an end to proceedings, encouraging fans to head home safely".

The force also confirmed that four people were arrested for public order offences.

One officer was injured.

Superintendent Jackie Marsh, of Leeds District Police, said: “The safety of fans and the wider public has always been our primary concern and that is why we advised the safest way for people to celebrate in these times was in their own homes.

“However, it was anticipated that some fans would gather outside the ground last night to celebrate and a police operation was put in place to make sure that this was managed safely and effectively.

“This operation saw a total of four people arrested for public order offences. One officer received a minor injury which did not require hospital treatment.

“While most of those who gathered did so with good intentions, there were some missiles thrown which resulted in officers having to wear protective equipment.

“Assaults on police officers will not be tolerated and enquiries will be made to identify those responsible so appropriate action can be taken.”

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Thank you

Laura Collins