Six men have been arrested in connection with disorder before Watford FC’s season opener against Bolton Wanderers.

Officers swooped on addresses in Watford, South Oxhey, Croxley Green and Bricket Wood after identifying suspects this week.

The arrests relate to trouble that broke out in Market Street before the match on August 9 and involved up to 30 people. No one was reported to have been injured. 

So far two men age 40 and 46 from Watford have been arrested as well as an 18-year-old from Bricket Wood, a 17-year-old from Croxley Green, and a 19-year-old from South Oxhey.

The men have been released on police bail and are banned from going to football matches while enquiries are ongoing.

A sixth person, aged 17 and from Watford attended Hatfield Police Station today and was arrested. He has also been released on police bail. 

Superintendent Sue Jameson who leads the Constabulary’s response to football, said: "The disorder took place in a busy road in front of shopkeepers, people going about their daily business and families with children who were on their way to watch the first home game of the season. 

"We are working closely with Watford FC, a family orientated club, to fully investigate what happened. 

"These arrests send a clear message to those suspected of being involved in football related violence that is this behaviour is unacceptable. The investigation is on-going and we expect further arrests to be made. 

"I’d also reassure supporters and local residents and businesses that we are taking this matter extremely seriously."

Detective Inspector Jason Keane who leads the Local Crime Unit at Watford police station added: "This type of incident is highly unusual for Watford. As part of the investigation we have spoken to a number of people who witnessed the events that day, however we are keen to speak to people who saw what happened or may have filmed the incident on their phones."

If you witnessed what happened please contact police via the non-emergency number 101 quoting Operation Carousel.