The British Home Secretary Jack Straw received a less than heaven sent opportunity to witness Britain's yob culture first hand last night when he was caught up in rioting by Burnley fans after a 2-0 home defeat by bitter rivals Blackburn Rovers.

Within minutes of the match ending, the tiny streets around the stadium were full of the sounds of wailing sirens and the whirring blades of a helicopter as riot police tried to contain Burnley fans taking out their frustration by attempting to smash up the town centre.

The violence followed equally grim scenes in Sheffield on Saturday when United and Wednesday supporters clashed after the 1-1 draw at Bramall Lane. Police arrested 33 people and used CS gas and batons to disperse a 300-strong crowd.