I AM writing to you regarding the events of Sunday, May 16, in Blackburn Rovers' final Premiership fixture (temporarily). I have supported the team since my early teens, I go to both the home and away fixtures.

I am opinionated about the team, as with many other supporters though, these views are rarely aired outside my peer group. The events of the aforementioned match have however moved me to write this letter.

The behaviour of the 1,200 Blackburn fans at St James's Park was exemplary, despite the woe of relegation a party atmosphere prevailed. The banter between the two sets of supporters was humorous and good-natured, there was never even the slightest hint of any aggravation. The question must therefore be asked, why did the police see fit to evict 20+ supporters from the ground.

The police operated a policy of no tolerance. I understand that the segregation at St James's Park is minimal while they expand the ground, but there was never going to be any trouble. This was best demonstrated at the final whistle when the Newcastle fans shook our hands and applauded us as we left. I did not witness a single act that warranted a quiet word in the ear, never mind a forced ejection. Both sets of supporters voiced their disgust at the police action, chanting for supporters to be allowed to remain in the ground. Those who travelled to Newcastle experienced something that should be reported as a credit to football and its fans, the police figures will convey a bad-tempered affair tainted with animosity.

A touch of flexibility in the police approach, adapting their tactics to the situation would have left Rovers fans with good memories of their final Premiership fixture, instead we were left with a bad taste in our mouths. I have no doubt that this is not the only letter you will receive on this subject, many more eloquent I dare say, but I believe the events of the day warrant a mention in this paper and credit should be given to both sets of fans

JEZ LAWSON, Lynwood Road, Blackburn.

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