Two fans charged after violent brawl before Newcastle United clash against Chelsea at St. James’ Park

Two men have been charged with disorder in connection with a brawl that appeared to break out near The Black and White Bull pub before Newcastle United played Chelsea on Saturday, November 12.

Before the two sides met for the Premier League fixture, which the Magpies won 1-0, violence broke out at the pub on Barrack Road, Newcastle - just a few hundred metres away from St. James' Park.

More than 20 people are believed to have been involved in the incident, which occurred before the game kicked off at 5:30 pm.

Enquiries are ongoing into the disturbance and two men, aged 38 and 21, have now both been charged with a public order offence.

Superintendent Jamie Pitt, of Northumbria Police, said: “The overwhelming majority of football fans in the North East are a credit to the clubs they support and this region as a whole. However, before this particular match, the behaviour of a minority of supporters was totally unacceptable and this type of violent incident will simply not be tolerated.

“We are very proud of the relationship we have with supporters’ groups across Northumbria and that is something we are looking forward to strengthening even further throughout 2023.

“The festive period is always an exciting time for supporters and we hope all fans enjoy the games taking place during this Christmas and New Year.

“As ever, there will be a proportionate policing presence at these matches and anybody with any concerns is encouraged to speak to an officer on duty. We would warn anyone intent on causing disorder that you will be dealt with swiftly and robustly - and this could include a possible football banning order.”

Anyone with information regarding the disorder before the Newcastle vs Chelsea game on Saturday, November 12, should contact police via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page on their website or by calling 101 quoting log NP-20221112-0645.