Teenager charged over sectarian singing at Rangers match

• Man, 18, charged over sectarian singing at Rangers match

• Police investigate use of smoke flares at Balmoor

Grampian Police have also announced that the force is investigating the illegal use of smoke flares at the match which ended in a 2-2 draw before a 4,500 sell-out crowd.

A spokesman for Grampian Police said: “Grampian Police can confirm that an 18-year-old man has been charged in connection with sectarian singing which took place during the Peterhead versus Rangers match on Saturday.

“A report has been submitted to the Procurator Fiscal and the man is expected to appear in court in due course.”

Chief Inspector Allan Ross, the match commander, said: “The game took place in a generally good natured atmosphere and the overwhelming majority of fans were a credit to themselves and the clubs they support. As is all too often the case however, a very small number of individuals let themselves and their fellow supporters down with their behaviour.

“In addition to the male who was taken into custody in connection with sectarian singing, we are also investigating the use of smoke flares in the away section during the match.”

He continued: “The use of smoke flares at sporting events is illegal and poses a very real risk to public safety - particularly in a crowded environment like a football match. We are committed to tackling this type of reckless behaviour and the public can be assured that we will take firm action against those who put their fellow supporters at risk in this manner.

“It is important to stress however that the police cannot tackle this issue alone and the continued support of football clubs and the fans themselves is crucial in ensuring we can prevent incidents like this from occurring.”