FIVE men were arrested by police in connection with last night’s Oxford football derby.

Thames Valley Police has confirmed the men, aged between 19 and 47 were arrested for an array of disorder and drugs charges.

Three men from Swindon were taken in by officers, while one 45-year-old man from Calne and a 19-year-old man from Oldham were also cuffed.

Of the three Swindon men, one aged 41 and another aged 47 were each arrested on suspicion of affray and bailed until November 9 and November 3 respectively.

The third Swindon man, 42, was arrested on suspicion of affray and possession of a Class A drug. He too was bailed until November 9.

The Calne man was arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and bailed until November 3. He and the Swindon men were all arrested in connection with ongoing problems in Botley Road.

A large number of Swindon Town supporters were stationed at The One Bar & Restaurant in the city centre, which became a breeding ground for the conflict with police.

At its height, the disorder forced the closure of Botley Road and Park End Street.

The trouble being caused was so persistent, several hundred of those at the centre of the mischief were escorted back to the railway station before Swindon Town and Oxford United had even kicked off.

Local Police Area Commander for Oxford, Christian Bunt, said: “Thames Valley Police had a policing operation in place yesterday throughout the afternoon and evening in Oxford to manage the large number of football supporters for the Oxford v Swindon fixture.

“This is a local derby and we have historically had alcohol-related crime and disorder problems associated with this.

"We worked closely with the football club to ensure the safety of all people attending the event and going about their daily lives in the city.

"Unfortunately, a small minority of supporters were intent on causing problems which resulted in disorder in Botley Road, near to the train station.

“Three men from the Swindon area were arrested for public order offences.

“In addition a large number of people were also prevented from attending the match, due to their behaviour, and were escorted from the city.

"I am pleased that the rest of the operation went off without incident.”

The Oldham man was arrested and cautioned for being drunk and disorderly in Didcot ahead of the match.

The match itself went ahead without any incidents or arrests.