Monday 2 March 2015 22:37, UK
Police have launched an investigation after reports of racist and abusive behaviour which reportedly involved football fans on a train from London to Manchester on Sunday night.
British Transport Police (BTP) said they were called to meet the train as it entered Stoke station, and asked four men to leave the train, while four others left of their own accord.
BTP are now examining mobile phone footage of the incident, which the force obtained from a witness.
It follows two incidents of racist chanting allegedly involving Chelsea supporters following the club's Champions League clash with Paris St Germain last month. That incident is still being investigated by British and French authorities.
BTP are also investigating after a video showing people thought to be West Ham fans singing anti-Semitic songs was sent to anti-discrimination group Kick It Out.
The video, filmed on the London Underground, emerged following the 2-2 draw at White Hart Lane between West Ham and Tottenham.
A British Transport Police spokesman said: "Shortly after 10.30pm on Sunday, March 1, officers were called to meet a Euston-to-Manchester Piccadilly train at Stoke, following reports of racist and abusive behaviour by a number of passengers, said to be football fans.
"Colleagues from Staffordshire Police also attended. Officers asked four men to leave the train at Stoke. We have spoken to two witnesses, and investigations continue.
"Rail passengers and staff have the right to travel and work in peace. Abusive behaviour on trains and at stations is unacceptable, and we will not hesitate to investigate any such incidents."
A Chelsea spokesman said: "We are aware of the reports but it is not clear at this time if this incident involves Chelsea supporters. If it did then we will assist the British Transport Police with their enquiries."
The latest incident followed Chelsea's 2-0 victory over Tottenham in the Capital One Cup final at Wembley.
Supporters were warned prior to the Wembley contest to be on their best behaviour and were greeted by a sign which read 'Racist chanting may lead to arrest' on Wembley Way.
Police reported just five arrests following the final - and none of them were for any alleged racist chanting.
