Chairs were thrown and stools were used as weapons in a violent city centre brawl after Newport County played Swindon Town.
Residents in Newport had been bracing themselves for a very lively day with the two League Two sides coming together and Wales hosting Ireland in the Six Nations. Before the afternoon of sporting action, Gwent Police released a statement advising fans to get to their respective grounds early while also asking punters to “drink responsibly”.
Unfortunately for the Welsh town, Swindon and Newport fans not only ignored the advice, they also became embroiled in a shocking fracas, which saw chairs and stools thrown and used as weapons in front of shocked onlookers.
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The violent scenes began when a fight broke out between two groups after Newport overcame Town 2-1. CCTV obtained by WalesOnline captured the horrendous fight, which involved dozens of rival fans outside of a busy strip with bars and restaurants.
Bar chairs and stools were being thrown or used as battering rams as innocent onlookers tried to get away. Panicked workers could also be seen moving their outside furniture away from the brawling supporters.
At times, chairs were thrown as high as the canopy shelters. Towards the end of the footage, police could be seen entering the street in an attempt to disperse the two groups.
(Image: Wales Online)
Wales Online reached out to Gwent Police but they are yet to respond. Before the match, the force released the following advice to fans going to the League Two contest and to the Six Nations. “Newport play against Swindon Town at Rodney Parade in Newport,” the statement began.
“If you have tickets, please head down to the ground as early as possible to avoid the rush. Our officers will be out and about, ready to welcome everyone to Newport and make sure everybody has a safe and enjoyable time.
“As fans across Gwent prepare to support their team, make sure your squad is ready by remembering if drinking, drink responsibility. Thank you for helping us keep Gwent Safe.”
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