Football violence is a blight on the game that most of us thought had reached its peak – or, more accurately, its lowest point – in the 1980s, when gangs of thugs organised themselves into “firms”, travelling around the country with violence rather than sport on their minds.

But, periodically, this type of thuggism continues to rear its head. We have witnessed the despicable scenes prior to the Euro 2012 championship in which race-related violence caused concern for British fans travelling over to the Ukraine and Poland. And closer to home, the spectre of hooliganism is not yet fully laid to rest.

West Yorkshire Police have taken the step of releasing photographs of several men they believe took part in large-scale disorder in Huddersfield – and apparently some of them affiliated themselves to Bradford City.

We choose our words carefully, because anyone who takes part in football-related violence cannot be said to be a fan of a club or the wider game; indeed, the clubs themselves would have no wish for such thugs to be associated with them.

Football is a national game which brings pleasure to many, especially at a time of international competition such as this. The sport should be accessible for all people from all walks of life, families included, but that will only truly happen when the frankly childish actions of grown men who besmirch the game’s reputation by lashing out against opposing supporters is stamped out.

Anyone who values football and who has information which will help the police arrest those suspected of violence should offer their assistance immediately and help put away the thugs for the good of the game.