POLICE in Lancashire have confirmed their investigation into allegations of racist abuse during a game against Wanderers at the Mazuma Stadium in February has now been dropped.

No further action will be taken against a 61-year-old man who had been arrested after the 1-1 draw in League One.

The process had continued for several months as claims that racial slurs had been directed towards the Bolton bench were investigated.

The match was delayed for 10 minutes after referee Stephen Joyce brought both teams off the pitch – with Evatt claiming a comment had been made to one of his substitutes.

"From minute one the barrage of abuse from directly behind the dugout was astonishing," he said after the game.

"No protection. Encroachment, spitting and it takes the worst of all remarks - a racist remark - for somebody to stand up and do something about it.

"I'm emotional. This game never fails to disappoint me. I feel for Stephen [Robinson, Morecambe boss], because his team has fought and it's not in any shape at all a mark against him, he was outstanding on the touchline and completely understanding."

Five Bolton fans were also detained at the same match on suspicion of assault and being drunk and disorderly, with one man later charged with pitch encroachment. Other supporters were also given fixed penalties after Wanderers’ late equaliser sparked chaotic scenes.

A statement on the Morecambe FC website read: “As attendances at the Mazuma Stadium continue to grow, we remain committed to our belief that the matchday environment shall be one that is entirely inclusive, respectful and safe, so that everyone can enjoy it.

“Morecambe Football Club continue to call upon clubs and the authorities to work together when faced with challenging situations such as this one, as it is only by cooperating and communicating in a collaborative manner that we can make the game that we all love better.”

Wanderers go back to Morecambe on March 4.

Social, newsletters, subscriptions and getting in touch...

You can follow the Bolton News on social media, by joining us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

We also have dedicated Facebook groups on Crime & Court, Traffic & Travel, Nostalgia and our Camera Club page

If you want to make sure you don't miss the most important news stories every day, sign up to one of our free e-mail newsletters 

Gain unlimited access to the Bolton News website with a premium digital subscription - we are running a £2 for two months special offer

Or if you want the Bolton News newspaper delivered to your door, get in touch with our home delivery team or call us on 0800 953 0227

Finally, have you got a story for us? If so, contact us at newsdesk@theboltonnews.co.uk or by using our online contribution form