A WEST Mercia Police officer who was injured following disorder outside Villa Park last week has thanked the public for their support.
PC Andy Forbes was one of the officers supporting West Midlands Police during Aston Villa’s game against Legia Warsaw on Thursday, November 30.
Following the match, PC Forbes had a flare thrown at him which became lodged in his clothes, and he was taken to hospital after inhaling smoke and suffering minor burns.
The 43-year-old, who has 20 years’ service, said: “I’m thankful that my kit and training stood the test and I have an overwhelming relief that I didn’t receive any injuries that will be everlasting.
“That certainly outweighs the ifs, buts and maybe. I would like to thank the public for their support.”
PC Forbes was one of five officers who suffered minor injuries on the night, along with two police dogs and two police horses.
In total, 45 men and one woman have been charged over the violence.
Those charged are aged between and 21 and 63, and around 40 are believed to be from Poland.
A small number are believed to be from the UK.
