Huge rise in hooligan arrests

The number of football hooligans arrested by police in Walsall last season has increased, according to new figures revealed by the Home Office today.

Fifty one people were arrested in connection with Saddlers games – a big increase on the total of 12 for 2005-2006.

Banning orders were given to 20 people following incidents at the Banks's Stadium compared to none the previous year.

Walsall Football Club stadium operations and safety officer Dave Storr said in addition to the 51 arrested by police, five people were given life bans.

The retired police inspector said: "Last season I banned five people for life for bad behaviour. I won't stand for bad behaviour and I do take positive action when it's required.

"It's easier for me to ban them rather than pushing some people through the courts system."

Topping the league of shame were Birmingham City with 100 arrests compared with 93 in 2005-2006, followed by Wolves and Aston Villa who both had 77 "fans" taken into custody. West Brom's total was 38 compared to 23 last year.

More Wolves fans were given banning orders – 15– by magistrates than any other club across the region. It takes their total to 52.