A BURY football supporter who was arrested after being slashed during a melee involving rival soccer fans will not face any charges.

During the past four months, Michael Harvey had been banned from attending Shakers' home and away matches as police investigations into the incident continued.

Now, the 56-year-old has been told he will face no further action.

Mr Harvey, of Massey Street, was arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent after a clash involving Bury and Carlisle United supporters in January.

He admits to being involved in the fracas but stresses he was only defending himself.

He said Carlisle supporters had thrown bricks and two smoke bombs at Bury fans as they tried to enter a rear gate at the Stanley Conservative Club in Back Brierley Street.

During the incident, Mr Harvey was slashed while a 20-year autistic Carlisle fan was cut across his hand with a knife as he tried to act as a peacemaker. The man was also kicked repeatedly after collapsing.

Mr Harvey, who was later detained by officers, said: "I noticed blood down my coat and all over my clothes. I spent six hours in Salford Royal having six stitches in my ear and another in my eye. I also spent 24 hours in a police station before being bailed. They also took all my clothes away for analysis."

As part of his bail conditions, he was unable to go within 1.5 miles of Bury's JD Stadium three hours before home kick-offs and for four hours after the final whistle. He was also barred from attending away fixtures.

Mr Harvey said he only found out last week that no further action was being taken, although the decision was made by police on March 2.

"My clothes have now been returned to me and last Saturday I was at Bury's game. I believe no charges were made because people backed my version of events."

On the last four months of uncertainty, Mr Harvey added: "Obviously, it's been a worrying time for me and I've had to change my routine. My solicitor told me that if I had been charged and found guilty of wounding with intent, I could have been looking at between six and eight years in prison."

Greater Manchester Police confirmed that no further action will be taken against Mr Harvey.