Police have launched an investigation after reports of racist and abusive behaviour from Chelsea fans on a train from London to Manchester on Sunday night.

British Transport Police said they were called to meet the train as it entered Stoke station and asked four men to leave the train. Four others left of their own accord.

It follows an alleged racist incident involving Chelsea supporters on the Paris Métro last month ahead of the club’s Champions League last 16 first leg clash with Paris St Germain. That incident is still being investigated by British and French authorities.

A British Transport Police spokesman said: “Shortly after 10.30pm on Sunday, March 1, officers were called to meet a Euston-to-Manchester Piccadilly train at Stoke, following reports of racist and abusive behaviour by a number of passengers, said to be football fans.

“Colleagues from Staffordshire Police also attended. Officers asked four men to leave the train at Stoke. We have spoken to two witnesses, and investigations continue.

“Rail passengers and staff have the right to travel and work in peace. Abusive behaviour on trains and at stations is unacceptable, and we will not hesitate to investigate any such incidents.”

Police are examining mobile phone footage of the alleged incident on the train from London to Manchester which the force obtained from a witness.