Chaos as Newcastle city lost local derby to Sunderland 0-3

This is the moment a Newcastle United fan punched a police horse in a shocking display of violence during football riots in the city centre yesterday.

The blow caused the horse to rear up in pain, almost throwing its rider to the ground.

More than 100 Newcastle supporters rampaged through the streets after their team lost 3-0 to Sunderland at St James’ Park.

Police described the violence as the ‘worst for decades’ as fans hurled bottles, bricks and missiles at officers and rival supporters.

The horse which was attacked was one of several being used by police to control the crowds.
A middle-aged, unidentified man wearing a Newcastle United shirt and with a black scarf covering the lower half of his face ran up to the animal and punched it in the neck.

The man was wrestled to the ground by police, handcuffed and arrested. He is expected to appear before magistrates this morning.

Three officers were injured, one of whom was taken to hospital, and 27 people were arrested.

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