An Ipswich man has been charged with being in possession of a flare during the derby game with Norwich at Portman Road in August.

Suffolk Constabulary has said Mark Wahl, of Fountains Road, is to make his first appearance before South East Suffolk Magistrates’ Court on October 31.

The 34-year-old was arrested on the day of the match during which a flare was set off inside the ground.

Wahl was released on bail pending further enquiries.

Police have now confirmed that after answering his bail earlier this month Wahl was charged with being in possession of an article, namely a flare, during a sporting event under section 2A of the Sporting Events Act 1985.

A 45-year-old man from Norwich was also arrested at Ipswich v Norwich game on suspicion of possessing a lit flare.

He was released on bail until Monday this week.

Laura Caulton, a spokeswoman for Suffolk Constabulary, said the suspect will not be charged and no further action will be taken against him.

Police said they made seven arrests on the day of the match, which took place on August 21 and ended in a 1-1 draw.

A number of people had to be treated by medics for the effects of smoke after a flare was set off, but none were said to be seriously affected.

Yellow smoke was seen rising from a section of the Ipswich supporters after Norwich took the lead through Cameron Jerome in the 26th minute.

The other people arrested on the day were detained on suspected drug, affray and assault offences.

Two others breached dispersal notices after being told to the leave an area following anti-social behaviour.