TWO football fans were taken to hospital with head injuries after a minibus carrying women and children was pelted with rocks following Barrow AFC's win over York City.

Saturday's game between Barrow AFC and York City came to a violent end as vehicles on their way back home came under attack.

Walney Road was illuminated with flashing lights as the emergency services raced to the scene.

Inspector Matt Pearman, from Barrow Police, said: "We're investigating two incidents involving minibuses travelling from the football match back to York area that were reported having rocks thrown at them.

"One of the vehicles suffered damage to the windows and the other also suffered damage to the windows but also injuries to the passengers."

The incident occurred after an exciting game at Holker Street, where Barrow AFC beat rivals York City 2- 0.

York City had just begun their journey home when their minibuses were pelted with rocks.

Several people are reported to have been injured in the attack with two being taken to hospital.

A tweet from York City Police said: "Words fail me, this was a cowardly attack on a coach carrying women and children on board.

"Both injured have nasty head lacerations but they'll be ok. Thoughts with those involved in this shocking and frightening incident."

It has not yet been confirmed whether the attack has any connection to football fans, but Barrow Police are adamant that most fans do not tolerate violent behaviour.

Inspector Pearman said: "The vast majority of Barrow AFC fans enjoy themselves sensibly but we do not tolerate any incidents of disorder and anyone suspected of being violent will be pursued and brought to justice."

Police have confirmed that two people have been arrested following the incident.

Barrow AFC fans have been appalled by the incident and are eager not to be associated with the violence.

Taking to Facebook, one reader Christine Smith said: "What a disgrace. Hope these scum get what they deserve. They certainly are not wanted at Barrow AFC.

"Much apologies to these away fans from the true Supporters!! Can't believe this happened with so many police around!"

Lisa Jane McInnes added: "Why, just why? Giving all the decent Barrovians a bad name. It makes me so mad I hope they are severely punished for their violent behaviour."

Another reader Cormac Murray said: "Barrow AFC needs all the support it can get, especially if they've got league aspirations. This does not help."

Chairman of Barrow AFC Paul Casson condemned the behaviour as a "mindless act of violence" and hopes that no Barrow fans were involved.

He said: "Obviously this was a mindless act of violence.

"Barrow AFC will not tolerate any kind of threatening behaviour and we wouldn't expect that of any true Barrow AFC supporter.

"I have full confidence in the police to carry out their investigation but if it was a Barrow AFC supporter and that they were at the game, they will be dealt with as severely as possible.

"It's just shocking - especially after such a wonderful day."

Mr Casson is now calling for people across Barrow to rally together to stop this kind of behaviour and let the perpetrators know that it will not be accepted by the community.

He said: "Too often football gets impugned by these mindless acts. The people of Barrow should band together and let people know that this kind of behaviour is totally unacceptable.

"This is a broader issue than football and people who travel to our town should be treated with respect. They should be allowed to have a wonderful day and perceive this town in the best possible light."