United's assistant manager attacked (From Witney Gazette)

United's assistant manager attacked

2:42pm Tuesday 7th March 2006 in Witney

THE assistant manager of Witney United was left with a broken arm after being assaulted in a 'cowardly and criminal' way after an away game at the weekend.

Pete Lamont, who is in his 50s, was at Kidlington FC's ground on Saturday, March 4 for the Hellenic Premier league match, which the away team lost 2-1, when he was attacked by a mystery man.

As a former manager of Kidlington FC, Mr Lamont stayed behind after the game at the Yarnton Road ground, to catch up with some old friends.

But shortly after 7.30pm, he was punched to the floor by an attacker at the clubhouse, who then kicked him while he was on the ground, before running off.

In a message posted on the Witney United website, team chairman, Steve Lake, told fans that Kidlington FC were not to blame for the 'cowardly, criminal act', but hoped the club would launch an investigation.

Speaking to the Witney Gazette, he added: "The attack took place as Pete came out of the toilets in the clubhouse. He was punched to the ground, and then kicked. He suffered a broken arm as he tried to protect himself from the blows.

"I am hoping that Kidlington FC will carry out a full investigation. If an incident like this had happened at Marriotts Stadium, I would be mortified. Everyone at WUFC would like to wish Pete a speedy recovery."

Team chairman Steve Lake

"His attacker gave no warning, and was unknown to Pete, or, it would seem, to anyone in the Kidlington bar.

"I am hoping that Kidlington FC will carry out a full investigation. If an incident like this had happened at Marriotts Stadium, I would be mortified. Everyone at WUFC would like to wish Pete a speedy recovery."

Simon Dickens, press officer for Kidlington FC, said he had been alerted at about 7.30pm.

He added: "Someone said there was a guy outside the clubhouse bleeding, and we went to see what had happened, and found Pete, who is very well known at the club, because he was the manager seven or eight years ago.

"Pete said some guy had just waded into him outside the toilets, and he was a bit vague when it came to giving a description he said the man had a moustache, and was in his 30s.

"Pete said the guy ran off afterwards and no one seemed to know him or recognise him. This is a very bizarre incident, and we hope Pete makes a speedy recovery. We will do everything we can to help police with their inquiries."

Adam Fisher, a spokesman for Thames Valley Police, said: "Officers were called following reports that a man had been assaulted, suffering injuries to his arm, a cut to his left eyebrow, and bruising to his head.

"The offender made off on foot.

"Officers carried out an area search, but there was no sign of him."

Anyone with information is asked to call PC Adrian Mackie, on 08458 505505.