Inquiry as fan dies after game

POLICE are examining CCTV footage and mobile phone videos to establish how a football supporter was fatally injured at the Britannia Stadium.

The 30-year-old Blackburn Rovers fan died in hospital after collapsing in the concourse area of the South Stand on Saturday.

It is believed that the man, named as John Steven Taylor, was hit in the head by a bin that was thrown by a fellow supporter during half-time in the Stoke v Blackburn match.

A 25-year-old man from Preston was arrested in connection with the incident. Last night he was bailed pending further inquiries.

Stewards and police were alerted at around 4pm, and Mr Taylor, of Darwen, Lancashire, was treated at the scene for a head injury and heart attack. He was pronounced dead shortly before 2am yesterday at the University Hospital of North Staffordshire. A post-mortem examination found the cause of death was due to a head injury.

Police sealed off the concourse following the incident. After the match, Blackburn fans faced a short wait before being led out via the pitch side entrance. Officers are examining CCTV footage, as well as video taken on fans' mobile phones.

Stoke City said police were investigating the incident and no comment could be made at this stage, but extended sympathy to Mr Taylor's family.

Bricklayer Mr Taylor's brother Mark told The Sentinel: "He was known in his home town as a local legend. We followed Rovers through thick and thin. His three brothers and son all adored him; he was our idol."

Mr Taylor added: "He will be deeply missed. When he died, he took a part of all of us with him."

Bryan Shaw, from Stoke City Supporters' Club, said: "It's crazy that someone could die in those circumstances.

"It takes the shine off the result and puts football in perspective.

"All we can do is offer our sympathies to the man's family. It's a sad day for football."

Martin Smith, founder of The Oatcake fanzine, said: "All football fans, despite our allegiances, are a fraternity and when something like this happens we all feel it. Every Stoke fan will be feeling for his family and friends."

A statement from Blackburn Rovers said: "Blackburn Rovers Football Club is shocked and saddened to learn of the death of a supporter.

"The club wishes to pass on sincere condolences to the man's family at this deeply distressing time."

Around 1,300 Blackburn fans attended the game, which Stoke won 3-0.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, or who recorded it on their phone, is asked to call police on 01785 233600 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

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