A man has been given a football banning order after punching a police officer and getting involved in confrontations with opposition fans.

Wiltshire Police said the incident took place on 28 February ahead of Swindon Town Football Club's home game against Bristol Rovers, which attracted a crowd of more than 12,000.

James Farmer, 29, of Munro Close in Walcot, was charged with having a weapon in a public place, causing intentional harassment, alarm or distress and assaulting an emergency worker.

He admitted the charges at Swindon Magistrates' Court on Thursday and received a three-year banning order, was told to complete 40 hours' unpaid work within 12 months and pay £50 in compensation.

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Prior to the game, Farmer punched a police officer in the face before then "instigating" disorder between Swindon Town and Bristol Rovers fans, the force said.

When arrested he was found in possession of weighted gloves.

PC Dan Hatt from Wiltshire Police said: "This kind of behaviour has absolutely no place in football or in our communities. Threatening violence to opposition supporters or the people that work at football matches is a serious matter, and this banning order reflects that.

"We hope this outcome sends a clear message that disorder of this nature will not be tolerated, and we will continue to work with clubs and partners to keep supporters safe."

Wiltshire Police said it is still investigating incidents from the day of the match, and more arrests may follow.

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Swindon Town 1-1 Bristol Rovers

Wiltshire Police