Officers are appealing for information following an attack on mini buses carrying supporters of York City following their game away to Barrow AFC on Saturday (24 September).

The attack is believed to have taken place not long after 5pm as the buses travelled along the A590 Walney Road, between the fire station and the Ormsgill junction. Two men were taken to hospital with cuts to the head and face. They have since been discharged.

Chief Inspector Dave Bosson said: “This was a cowardly and deplorable incident and we are urging anyone who witnessed what happened or has any information which may assist us to call in.

“Thankfully this type of behaviour is extremely rare, which makes it all the more shocking. I’m sure all football fans in the Barrow area and beyond will join me in saying this type of incident is indefensible and we will do everything possible to ensure those responsible are held accountable for their actions.”

Two people were arrested following the incident – a man aged 22 and a boy aged 14. They are both from the Barrow area and have been bailed pending further enquiries. The terms of their bail include an exclusion zone around Barrow AFC’s home ground which will prevent them from attending any games while investigations are on-going. The bail conditions also mean they cannot go into any licensed premises between 11am and 7pm on the day of a Saturday Barrow AFC home fixture or between 5pm and 11pm on the evening of a mid-week Barrow AFC home fixture. They are also precluded from associating with each other.

Anyone with any information about this incident is urged to call PC Rickie Wallbank at Cumbria Constabulary on 101 quoting incident number 189 of 24 September 2016 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.