ABOLTON Wanderers fan was left shocked and disappointed following violence and verbal abuse at Saturday's match against Everton.

Boltonian, Brian Shepherd who now lives in Morecambe, where he works as a police officer travelled to the match with his wife Donna and his seven-year-old son Jonathon.

Mr Shepherd, a Teamcard holder said he was shocked to discover he was sitting just a stone's throw away from Everton fans as he watched the game at the Reebok.

He said: " We were sitting in the South Stand and when Alan Stubbs equalised I was pretty shocked to see a large amount of Everton fans leap up and cheer. We were only segregated by about 30 feet and the atmosphere was intimidating.

"In my line of work I am used to it, but it was made worse because I had my seven-year-old son with me. Some of the away fans were like animals, they shouted abuse and swear words to the Bolton Wanderers fans closeby and made obscene gestures."

Mr Shepherd, whose son is a member of The Junior Whites said things came to a head at half time when they visited the catering area to get something to eat and witnessed a fight.

He said: " A large fight was taking place which took several stewards and police officers to stop it. Somebody could have been seriously injured and I think the club needs to get it's act together.

" I have written to the club asking for a refund, after all you do not pay over £40 a ticket to have a bad time and feel threatened, you go to enjoy yourself."