Police
have launched an investigation after reports of racist and abusive behaviour
which reportedly involved football fans on a train from London to Manchester
on Sunday night.
British Transport Police said they were called to meet the train as it
entered Stoke station, and asked four men to leave the train, while four
others left of their own accord.
It follows two incidents of racist chanting allegedly involving Chelsea
supporters following the club's Champions League clash with Paris St Germain
last month. That incident is still being investigated by British and French
authorities.
British Transport Police are also investigating after a video showing people
thought to be West Ham fans singing anti-Semitic songs was sent to
anti-discrimination group Kick It Out.
The video, filmed on the London Underground, emerged following the 2-2 draw
at White Hart Lane between West Ham and Tottenham.
A British Transport Police spokesman said: "Shortly after 10.30pm on Sunday,
March 1, officers were called to meet a Euston-to-Manchester Piccadilly
train at Stoke, following reports of racist and abusive behaviour by a
number of passengers, said to be football fans.
"Colleagues from Staffordshire Police also attended. Officers asked four men
to leave the train at Stoke. We have spoken to two witnesses, and
investigations continue.
"Rail passengers and staff have the right to travel and work in peace.
Abusive behaviour on trains and at stations is unacceptable, and we will not
hesitate to investigate any such incidents."
A Chelsea spokesman said: "We are aware of the reports but it is not clear
at this time if this incident involves Chelsea supporters. If it did then we
will assist the British Transport Police with their enquiries."
The latest incident followed Chelsea's 2-0 victory over Tottenham in the
Capital One Cup final at Wembley.
Supporters were warned prior to the Wembley contest to be on their best
behaviour and were greeted by a sign which read 'Racist chanting may lead to
arrest' on Wembley Way.
Police reported just five arrests following the final - and none of them
were for any alleged racist chanting.
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