A police investigation has been launched after a Southend United fan ran onto the pitch and assaulted a number of Colchester supporters during the derby match at the weekend.

A police investigation has been launched after a Southend United fan ran onto the pitch and assaulted a number of Colchester supporters during the derby match at the weekend.

The man was seen running across the pitch at Roots Hall towards the end of Saturday’s game, which Southend won 3-0, to throw punches at members of the away support before disappearing back into the stand.

A statement released by Southend United said the club “completely condemns” the actions of the few “mindless individuals” involved in the incident.

Southend’s chief executive, Steve Kavanagh, said: “Such people are not welcome at Roots Hall and I hope all fans will assist the club in identifying them to ensure that their actions do not go unpunished.

“The incident on Saturday is something that hasn’t occurred in recent memory and the club will do everything we can to ensure Roots Hall continues to remain a safe and family-friendly environment for football fans.”

A spokeswoman for Essex Police said officers had good CCTV of the suspect and, with the club security team, were working to identify the man and arrest him.

Any victims of assault who have not yet spoken to police or anyone with information which could assist enquiries are asked to call officers at Southend Police Station on 101.