SOCCER thugs will not be tolerated.

That is the message from Humberside Police and Grimsby Town after a soccer lout was handed a three-year football banning order for his part in the trouble that marred a recent Grimsby Town match.

Andrew Croucher, 20, of Freeman Street, Grimsby, was given the order at Grimsby Magistrates Court as Humberside Police took action to prevent any further unruly incidents.

Magistrates heard how on Saturday, February 20, in a game between the Mariners and local rivals Lincoln City at Blundell Park, Croucher ran onto the pitch in an attempt to provoke City supporters.

Croucher goaded City fans, and attempted to charge into the visiting section.

After the hearing, football intelligence officer Pc Darren Dodd said: "We are currently working alongside our Lincolnshire colleagues to identify all involved in the disorder both during and after the game in order to ensure that appropriate punishments are issued to all offenders.

"We stated at the start of the season that this type of behaviour will not be tolerated by either police or Grimsby Town Football Club as it ruins the atmosphere for those looking to watch their team at home or visit the area as a travelling supporter."

Read more about the case in today's Grimsby Telegraph.