A FOOTBALL linesman has told of his upset after allegedly being racially abused at a Sunday league cup final.

The Northern Echo understands Tony Pattison, of Hartlepool, was accused of being an illegal immigrant despite coming from the region.

The Steve Tierney Cup Final between Hartlepool sides Lion Hillcarter and Supporters was abandoned during extra-time.

Mr Pattison was on the touchline when he was subjected to abuse from a supporter. The fan, a male, was removed, but the linesman was too upset to continue and referee, Mark Walsh, called the game off at 1-1.

Mr Pattison, believed to be in his 30s, said he had been advised by police not to give details of what happened at this stage, but said: “It was a very upsetting incident and it’s very important this issue is highlighted.”

John Cooper, secretary of the Hartlepool Sunday Football League, was at Grayfields Recreation Ground when the remarks were made.

He said: “The guy was going on about the decisions supposedly going to one side, and saying things like, ‘it wouldn’t surprise me if you were an illegal immigrant.’

"It wasn’t nice. We are all stunned in the league.”

Ronnie Chambers, a referee in the same league, had his nose bloodied after being attacked by a goalkeeper at the beginning of the season in August.

He said: “It obviously looks bad for the town and it’s been a bad season. Action needs to be taken. People are just let off all the time.”

John Topping, company secretary for the Durham FA, said he had received the referee’s report and was waiting for information from Mr Pattison and both clubs. The matter will then be put before the disciplinary committee.

A spokeswoman for Cleveland Police said: “This has been reported to us and we are investigating it as a racially aggravated incident. Anyone with information is asked to contact police on the non-emergency number 101.”

The cup final will be replayed on Tuesday, May 21.