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Police called to incident at Norwich Christian football


Organisers acted swiftly after a spectator was alleged to have head-butted another supporter at a Norfolk Christian Football League youth tournament in Norwich on Saturday (May 21).


The league’s annual five-a-side tournament, with 33 teams from aged ten to 16, took place at the Sale Road recreation ground at Heartsease in the city, with lots of spectators watching the games.

Norfolk Police said officers were called to “reports of an altercation at the football tournament”. A spokesman said it was alleged that “one spectator has head-butted another”.

Mike Culwick, chairman of the league, confirmed that an incident took place involving spectators, not players or team management. The police were called immediately and took charge of the situation, allowing the tournament to continue.

“The Christian league offers football for youth and adults on Saturday mornings, regardless of background or ability. The welfare and protection of young people is extremely important in our league, and this is the first serious incident that we have had since the youth league was founded 21 years ago,” said Mike.

“We deeply regret that this took place, but we are determined to continue this valuable ministry which has tremendous support from all those involved in the league. It will not deter us from providing games of football that are regularly enjoyed by over 600 adults and youngsters playing in the Norfolk Christian Football league.”

A man in his 30s from Norwich was arrested in connection with the incident and was bailed to return on Monday June 20 at Aylsham Police Investigation Centre.

Click here to read a report on the tournament.