Man to appear in court over hearse and car pitch invasion during Dunston UTS v Gateshead

Officers investigating a bizarre pitch invasion during a pre-season match between Dunston UTS and Gateshead have charged a man with various offences.

Shortly before 8.20pm on Friday, July 21, 2023, it was reported that two vehicles had been driven onto the pitch at Dunston Football Club, on Wellington Road, during half-time.

The Subaru and a hearse were driven around in circles before a group of males wearing balaclavas then exited onto the pitch.

They threw several leaflets before driving away in the Subaru before the police arrived at the scene.

The hearse was left abandoned on the pitch.

An extensive investigation into the incident has seen 12 people arrested, with a 29-year-old man charged with one count of causing criminal damage and a public order offence.

He is due to appear at South Tyneside Magistrates' Court later this month.

Read Newcastle's news on the go with our free email newsletters - bringing the headlines to your inbox. Catch up on the day's news and sport and enjoy even more from the NewcastleWorld team. Visit our website here to find out more and sign up.

Police have confirmed that two other men, aged 29 and 41, remain under investigation while another two men, aged 40 and 42, remain on police bail.

Officers have also confirmed that seven other men arrested in connection with the incident will face no further action.

Anyone with information about what happened on July 21 who has not yet contacted police should do so by using the ‘Report’ page of the Northumbria Police website or call 101 quoting reference number NP-20230721-1154.