BURNLEY Football Club today reiterated its tough stance on soccer hooliganism after a travelling fan was beaten unconscious by thugs as he left Turf Moor.

A 34-year-old Blackpool supporter, who had travelled to see the Seasiders' game against the Clarets on Tuesday night, was set upon by a group of men as he left the match.

Officers investigating the assault said the gang were believed to be Burnley fans.

Today the club said such violence would not be tolerated and anyone convicted of a football related offence would be subjected to a lifeban from Turf Moor.

Club Secretary Cathy Pickup said: "This incident happened away from the stadium but we will, however, reiterate our stance that anyone found guilty through the courts of a football related offence will also be subject to a life ban at Turf Moor."

The victim, who has not been named by police but is from the Blackpool area, was approached at about 9.45pm following Burnley's 3-0 victory over Blackpool in the Nationwide League Division One clash.

As the man was making his way out of the stadium and along nearby Church Street he was set upon by the thugs. He received head injuries and cuts to his ears and hand.

Detective Sergeant Dave Groombridge, of Burnley CID, said: "The man was beaten about the head, which caused him to fall unconscious.

"He suffered lacerations to both ears and had a hand injury, which fortunately did not turn out to be serious."

The victim was taken to Burnley General Hospital and later released.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident to come forward with information. Burnley CID can be contacted on 01282 472144 or informants can call the freephone Crimestoppers hotline on 0800 555 111.