A TRAIL of devastation was left by disgruntled Preston North End fans after their Lancashire derby defeat at Turf Moor.

Around 100 seats were ripped up by away supporters in the Cricket Field Stand after half-time during the Saturday clash.

And gloating Lilywhites fans were heard chanting about their wrecking spree, which has been condemned by police.

Troublemakers had been warned to stay away from the Burnley-Preston tie, with notices served on 12 known Preston hooligans in advance of the game.

The yobs are thought to have heeded the warning, issued by police working on Burnley’s ongoing Operation Fixture initiative.

Police say there were was no violent outbursts outside the ground and the game passed relatively peacefully, aside from the damage caused.

Sgt Matt Henderson, who was responsible for policing inside Turf Moor, confirmed that one 16-year-old youth from the Preston area was arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage in the away stand.

He has been bailed until later in the year for further enquiries to take place.

Sgt Henderson added: “I would estimate there was in excess of 100 seats broken within the Cricket Field Stand by the Preston fans.

“The majority of the damage appeared to happen towards the end of the game and there was chanting indicating that they knew exactly what they were doing.”

Police also arrested a 23-year-old Burnley supporter, for entering the field of play in celebration following Steven Caldwell’s 64th minute goal.

Insp Russ Procter, the match commander, added: “It was quite good-natured for a derby game, considering there was one of the largest crowds at Burnley this year.

“There were no incidents of violent disorder outside the ground.

"There were 12 notices served on individuals warning them not to travel to the game and this appears to have worked as they did not attend.”

Burnley FC officials refused to comment about the incident other than to say they were in contact with North End.

* Police say Jack Robinson, 23, of Tunstall Street, Burnley, will appear before the town’s magistrates court on October 1 charged with encroaching onto a football pitch during a licensed game.

If convicted he could be liable for a three-year football banning order.