Soccer violence erupted when a referee was struck by a spectator.

Police were called to the non-league Witham match against visiting team Aveley, in the Ryman League Division Three clash.

As referee Jim Bavister was coming off the field at half time he was struck by a member of the crowd.

Mr Bavister was not seriously hurt in the incident and managed to carry on officiating at the game. The so-called fan had left the ground by the time police arrived.

The referee is expected to report the incident to the league. Witham will probably be told to improve security arrangements at their ground.

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