Four men arrested after hearse abandoned on football pitch

Four men are in custody after two cars were driven onto a football pitch during the half-time break of a non-league friendly.

A black hearse and a silver Subaru drove onto the pitch as non-league sides Gateshead and Dunston clashed on Friday night. The match was abandoned as a result of the incident.

Both vehicles were seen spinning around in circles at the UTS Stadium in Dunston. Men in balaclavas left the hearse and joined the second car, which was driven off the pitch and out of the stadium.

The hearse was left on the pitch.

Northumbria Police said three men – two aged 19 and one aged 32 – had been arrested on suspicion of affray, while a 41-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit criminal damage. They remain in police custody.

A statement from Northumbria Police said: “Disorder will not be tolerated in the community, and anyone found to be involved will be dealt with robustly.

“Officers would like to thank members of the public who have come forward to assist the investigation to date. People are also reminded to continue to avoid any speculation online and on social media as enquiries continue.

“Police will remain in the area throughout the weekend – and those with concerns and information are encouraged to speak with an officer on duty.”

Anyone with information or footage of the incident is asked to get in contact with Northumbria Police through the force’s website, or by calling 101 quoting reference number NP-20230721-1154.