DRUNK and disorderly Andrew Flewitt was arrested after throwing a hail of verbal abuse at Portsmouth football fans – despite having no interest in the game.

DRUNK and disorderly Andrew Flewitt was arrested after throwing a hail of verbal abuse at Portsmouth football fans – despite having no interest in the game.

The 35-year-old, of Shaftesbury Square, Ipswich, had been out drinking on Good Friday to celebrate a friend's birthday when he became intermingled with football fans at around 5pm.

A number of Ipswich and Portsmouth fans had gathered outside the Victoria Public House, in Civic Drive, Ipswich, before the match between the two teams at Portman Road.

A group of Portsmouth fans attempted to enter the pub but were turned away by door staff, who knew a number of Ipswich fans were already inside.

Shortly after they were turned away, another group of Ipswich fans walked down the road and a verbal exchange and confrontation between the two sets of supporters ensued.

The police were on scene to keep the two sides apart and advised the supporters to move away.

However, the verbal exchange continued and Flewitt joined in.

Despite "numerous" warnings to move on by police, Flewitt refused and – after "continuing his behaviour" – was arrested for being drunk and disorderly.

Flewitt, who works for Royal Mail, represented himself at South East Suffolk Magistrates' court and said he was "embarrassed" by his actions.

"I had no intention of going to the football match because I'm not an Ipswich Town supporter. I was out celebrating a friend's birthday and we were having a drink but I must've had too much.

"I feel embarrassed by my actions and I would like to apologise to the court."

Chairwoman of the bench Kate Redmond advised Flewitt that the centre of town is not the best place to drink when there is a football match on.

She ordered him to pay a £50 fine and £55 costs.