CITY have launched an investigation after a fan was hit by a flare during the Newport game.

It was thrown after the second goal from the upper tier of the Kop and landed on a supporter below.

The club are after witnesses to identify those responsible. They are also reviewing CCTV footage and hope to provide West Yorkshire Police with images to further identify suspects.

A statement said that those found responsible will face an indefinite ban from all City games - as will anyone connected to the incident.

City chief executive Ryan Sparks said: “Given our history, and what many of our supporters have been through together, it was utterly sickening to see a pyrotechnic deployed inside Valley Parade yesterday.

“After what our club has experienced, it is abhorrent to think one of our own supporters would show such a disregard for our history, and such disrespect to fellow supporters.

“Yesterday’s events will have no doubt affected a number of people who were made to witness them. For that, on behalf of the football club, I would like to apologise.

“It is incredibly disappointing to be discussing this kind of behaviour so early into the new season, given the statement issued recently concerning misconduct on matchday and its implications - both in terms of the club’s finances and reputation.

“When we find those responsible, they will face the strongest-possible action, and we urge anyone with information to step forward and assist with our investigations.”

City could now face sanctions from the Football Association, who will want full details of the incident.

Anyone who has further information can email helpdesk@bradfordcityafc.com or call 01274 773355 (ext. 223).