Rangers fans in high spirits - video


Chris Lord claims a policeman rammed him in the chest with a riot shield, sending him flying into a high street doorway, then struck him twice with a baton.

The attack left Chris, 50, with severe bruises to his leg, hip and arm.
He now intends to pursue what happened to him with the Police Complaints Commission, claiming he did nothing to provoke the policeman's "over the top" actions.

Chris, of Poulton Road, said his wife was left "hysterical" by the incident, which happened as fans rioted during Rangers' 2-0 defeat to Zenit St Petersburg of Russia.

Forty-two Rangers fans were arrested, one Russian fan was stabbed and CCTV footage showed Rangers fans attacking a police officer "like a pack of wolves" during Wednesday's disgraceful scenes.

But the Scottish Conservatives have demanded an inquiry into the police's response to the trouble.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said: "A number of people, including police officers, were injured as officers brought the disorder under control.

"Our priority was and remains public safety.

"GMP would like to stress that the vast majority of supporters have behaved impeccably and came to Manchester clearly intent on enjoying the carnival atmosphere. The behaviour of supporters in the other two fan zones and in other parts of the city centre was excellent."

Up until the screen went down in Piccadilly Gardens, there had been a total of eight arrests across the city centre since the Uefa Cup Final operation began at 2pm yesterday.

Acting Chief Constable, Justine Curran, said: "I am sure the majority of Rangers fans will be as disappointed as we are that this event was marred by this unnecessary and unacceptable behaviour by a small number of fans.

"Our priority has been public safety and my officers have acted professionally, swiftly and decisively to bring this trouble under control."

A total of 42 arrests were made.

For the full story see next week's Visitor.