A sixth man has admitted involvement in serious disorder between rival Scottish football fans inside a Carlisle pub — and been warned by a judge he could receive a prison sentence.
A number of weapons were reportedly brandished and objects thrown during the incident at Gallagher’s Irish Bar, Botchergate. This occurred just before 3pm on Saturday, October 23 2021, as disorder broke out involving followers of rival Scottish Premiership clubs Celtic and Hibernian.
On that day, members of the Hibernian group are said to have had a connection to counterparts from English side Oldham Athletic, who were playing Carlisle United in a league match at Brunton Park that afternoon.
Police launched an investigation in the aftermath of the trouble and nine men were initially charged with violent disorder.
In December, five of the men appeared at Carlisle Crown Court and pleaded guilty to an affray charge. This was proposed as a less serious alternative to the violent disorder allegation amid discussions between prosecution and defence lawyers.
At that hearing, 28-year-old Michael Morton initially denied affray.
But at the crown court today, Morton changed his plea and admitted affray.
Judge Nicholas Barker adjourned the hearing and requested the preparation of a probation service pre-sentence report.
Morton, of Oak Street, Stirling, was granted bail and, with the other five men, will be sentenced at the crown court in due course.
Judge Barker told Morton as he adjourned the case: “There is no indication of what the sentence is. This is a significant incident of public disorder. Clearly custody will be a consideration for the court.”
- Three other men who deny affray are due to stand trial in August.
