Hooligans’ arranged brawl spills into Sick Kids

Published on Friday 28 October 2011 12:13

An organised fight between Hibs and Celtic football casuals spilled into the Sick Kids hospital.

Up to 40 hooligans are said to have been involved in the incident outside the International Bar in Tollcross at around 9pm on Wednesday, as the Hibs v Celtic Scottish League Cup match took place at Easter Road.

It has been alleged some of those involved were carrying weapons.

Police say a coach carrying Celtic fans, who had travelled from Glasgow to Edinburgh, stopped outside the bar – after which a number of Hibs supporters who had been drinking inside came out and smashed three of the vehicle’s windows.

A fight then broke out and two men aged 22 and 23, who were passengers on the coach, were taken to the ERI for treatment to minor head injuries.

Detective Sergeant Mike Leask said: “This disorder has been pre-organised by those involved in football-related violence.

“It was a fight that had been taking place in the street, but a few individuals have tried to get into the Sick Kids hospital.

“They were chased into the reception area, but have been stopped by staff and ran off.”

A source from the International Bar said fans had come to watch the match. They said: “According to a member of staff we had about ten to 20 Hibs supporters watching the game.

“At around 8.30pm, a minibus drew up across the road and the next minute all these Hibs supporters stormed outside.

“A member of staff immediately called the police. By the time the police got there everyone had gone, including the minibus.

“Apparently, they were all fighting in Middle Meadow Walk. ”