Police have underlined the importance of football safety measures after two men were charged following a disturbance involving rival supporters outside Gillingham railway station.
The incident happened ahead of the League Two clash between Gillingham FC and Swindon Town on Saturday 26 April 2025. Kent Police officers, who had been deployed to minimise disruption, were on hand when violence broke out between groups of opposing fans.
Charges and court dates
- Nathan Clark, 19, of Regency Court, Sittingbourne, has been charged with a public order offence and with failing to answer bail.
- James Trott, 31, of Severn Avenue, Swindon, has been charged with assault by beating.
Both men are due to appear at Medway Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 3 September.
Police statement and football safety figures
Chief Superintendent Simon Alland of Kent Police said the force continues to work closely with clubs to ensure a safe environment at matches across the county.
"Whilst the vast majority of supporters behave impeccably and enjoy each game in the correct manner, there remain some whose inappropriate actions put other people in harm’s way," he said.
"Last season our officers arrested and/or interviewed 28 people in relation to alleged offences committed in or around football matches, including fighting, hate crimes, letting off flares and pitch invasions. We also supported stewards in ejecting 65 troublemakers.
"Anyone who commits such offences risks joining the 42 Kent residents currently subject to Football Banning Orders (FBOs), which prevent attendance at any regulated matches nationwide."
He added that officers look forward to supporting clubs in creating a "safe and welcoming environment" as the new season progresses.
Wider football policing work
Kent Police also collaborate with other forces to identify and arrest travelling supporters involved in violence outside the county.
On Thursday 7 August 2025, a 20-year-old man was sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court to two years and 11 months in prison after admitting wounding with intent and affray. He had kicked a teenage boy in the face prior to an FA Cup tie between Solihull Moors and Maidstone United in November 2024.
Kent officers recognised the man from CCTV footage and arrested him on behalf of West Midlands Police. The affray offence also related to disorder in Essex in 2023 before a match between Maidstone and Southend United.
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