TWELVE Wrexham FC fans are to appear in court next week following the second arrest phase of Operation Optimum which aims to tackle foot-ball-related violence.

The latest arrests relate to an incident involving a clash between Wrexham and Chester City supporters near Chester Railway Station on Saturday, January 24.

Trouble erupted after City fans, returning from Northwich, came to blows with more than 30 Wrexham supporters in City Road.

Over a two-week period police have made a total of 27 arrests from both sides of the England-Wales border for offences of violence and dis-order in Chester on both January 24 and a previous incident, also in Chester, on January 10, again involving fans from the same clubs.

The arrest phase, co-ordinated by Chester and Ellesmere Port police assisted by officers in North Wales, is the result of eight weeks planning, allowing for the evidence to be assembled and assessed.

The 12 men and juveniles arrested this week, will all appear at Chester Magistrates Court on Monday.

Police believe a total of 15 people may still be outstanding and enquiries will continue. CCTV stills may be supplied to the local media.