Following a violent brawl in Cheltenham, police have released the names of eleven men banned from attending regulated football matches for three years. The group, composed mainly of Cheltenham Town supporters alongside one Bristol Rovers fan, faced sentencing last month at Bristol Crown Court.
The incident occurred on Saturday, October 15, 2022, an hour before a League One fixture between Cheltenham Town and Bristol Rovers, which ended with Bristol Rovers winning 4-1. The chaos erupted outside two local pubs on Bath Road—the Moon Under Water and The Miller—where rival fans clashed in a large street fight involving punches before dispersing.
Police responded promptly to reports of disorder, reviewing CCTV footage and issuing a public appeal that identified 15 men connected to the affray. All were charged with affray offences and brought to court. Ultimately, 11 men pleaded guilty, one was acquitted, and charges against three others were dropped.
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The court acknowledged the defendants’ youth and immaturity at the time, noting they have since matured and expressed remorse. Sentences included three-year football banning orders, fines of £214 each, and community service ranging from 40 to 100 hours.
Gloucestershire Constabulary Football Officer PC Adrian Tuft commented on the case: “I am pleased that these men are now facing the consequences of their actions. The fight happened on a busy street during daytime, and it’s fortunate no one was seriously injured. This case sends a clear message that violence and inappropriate behavior related to football will not be tolerated.”
John Duffy, Safety Officer at Cheltenham Town FC, added: “This firm action, taken in full cooperation with the police, demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that anyone behaving poorly at or near Cheltenham Town FC fixtures faces the consequences.”